DE202015009401U1 - Driver detection system - Google Patents

Abstract

An electric vehicle, comprising: a board having first and second floor areas, each arranged to receive a left or right foot of a driver oriented substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the board; A wheel assembly having a ground contacting element disposed between and extending above the first and second land areas; A motor assembly mounted on the board and adapted to rotate the ground contact element about an axis to drive the electric vehicle; At least one alignment sensor arranged to measure alignment information of the board; A first detection area disposed in the first floor space area, the first detection area including two pressure-sensitive transducers spaced apart so that a first one of the two pressure-sensitive transducers registers a first area of a driver's foot and a second one of the two pressure-sensitive transducers second area of the same foot of the driver registered; and an engine controller configured to receive alignment information measured by the orientation sensor and driver present information based on the outputs of the two pressure-sensitive transducers, and to cause the engine assembly to control the electric vehicle based on Board orientation information and driver-available information drives; - wherein the engine controller is further configured to stop the engine assembly in response to the activation of exactly none or exactly one of the two pressure-sensitive transducers when a speed of the electric vehicle is below a threshold value.

Description

references

This application claims priority from US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 075,658, filed on Nov. 5, 2014, which is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes. The following related applications and objects are also included in their entirety for all purposes in: U.S. Patent No. 9,101,817 ,

field of use

The present disclosure is essentially directed to self-stabilizing electric vehicles. In particular, the disclosure is directed to driver detection systems and methods for these vehicles.

Summary

The present disclosure provides systems and methods for determining and / or assessing a driver's presence on an electric vehicle, such as a self-balancing skateboard.

In some embodiments, an electric vehicle may include a board having first and second floor areas, each configured to receive a driver's left or right foot oriented substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the board; a wheel assembly having a ground contact member disposed between and extending above the first and second land portions; a motor assembly mounted on the board and configured to rotate the ground contact element about an axis to drive the electric vehicle; at least one alignment sensor arranged to measure alignment information of the board; a first detection area disposed in the first floor area, the first detection area including a first pressure-sensitive transducer; and an engine controller configured to receive alignment information measured by the alignment sensor and driver presence information based on an output of the pressure-sensitive transducer, and to cause the engine assembly to support the electric vehicle on the engine Base of board registration information and driver present information drives.

In some embodiments, an electric skateboard may include a footwell having first and second footprint areas, each configured to support a rider's foot that is substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the footwell; exactly one ground contact wheel disposed between and extending above the first and second land areas and configured to rotate about an axis to drive the skateboard; at least one alignment sensor configured to measure an orientation of the footstand; a pressure sensitive transducer disposed on the first land area and including an electric motor configured to cause rotation of the wheel based on the orientation of the foot land and an output of the pressure sensitive transducer.

In some embodiments, a self-balancing electric vehicle may include a frame that defines a plane and a longitudinal axis; a first floor area secured to the frame and configured to support a first foot of a rider that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the frame; a second floor space portion attached to the frame and configured to support a second foot of a driver that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the frame; a wheel fixed to the frame between the floor areas extending above and below the plane and arranged to rotate about an axis lying in the plane; at least one alignment sensor attached to the frame and configured to detect alignment information of the frame; a pressure sensitive transducer disposed on the first land area and configured to detect driver present information based on a force applied to the first land area; an engine controller configured to acquire the registration information and the driver present information and to generate a motor control signal in response; and a motor configured to receive the engine control signal from the engine controller and to turn the wheel in response thereto, thereby driving the skateboard.

Features, functions, and advantages may be independently achieved in various embodiments of the present disclosure, or combined in other other embodiments, further details of which will become apparent with reference to the following description and drawings.

Brief description of the drawings

1 is a perspective view of a driver on an electric vehicle with a wheel assembly and transverse, longitudinal and yaw axes.

2 is an exploded view of the wheel assembly with a hub motor.

3 is a semi-schematic cross-sectional view of the wheel hub motor taken along the transverse axis.

4 is a perspective view of a bottom side of the electric vehicle.

5 is a schematic diagram of various electrical components of the electric vehicle.

6 FIG. 11 is a flowchart exemplifying initialization, standby, and operations of the electrical components. FIG.

7 is a side view of the electric vehicle in a first orientation.

8th FIG. 12 is a side view of the electric vehicle being moved to a second orientation to activate a control circuit for the wheel hub motor. FIG.

9 Figure 11 is a side view of the electric vehicle being moved to a third orientation to drive the wheel hub motor in a clockwise direction.

10 Figure 11 is a side view of the electric vehicle being moved to a fourth orientation to drive the wheel hub motor counterclockwise.

11 Figure 12 is a semi-schematic front view of the electric vehicle being moved to a fifth orientation to modulate a rotational speed of the wheel hub motor.

12 Figure 12 is a semi-schematic plan view of the electric vehicle being moved to a sixth orientation to modulate the rotational speed of the wheel hub motor.

13 FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of a system that includes the electric vehicle in conjunction with a wireless electronic device.

14 FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of a software application for the wireless electronic device. FIG.

15 is an exemplary screen capture of the software application.

16 is another example screen shot of the software application that represents a navigation function.

17 is another example screen shot of the software application that represents another navigation function.

18 is a semi-schematic screen shot of the software application that displays a rotating image.

19 FIG. 10 is an illustration of operations performed by an embodiment of the software application. FIG.

20A and 20B when viewed together, is another illustration of operations performed by one embodiment of the software application.

21 FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of a system that includes the wireless electronic device in conjunction with multiple electric vehicles.

22 FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of a system that includes the electric vehicle in conjunction with multiple wireless electronic devices.

23 FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of an illustrative data processing system. FIG.

24 FIG. 10 is an exploded isometric view of an illustrative driver detection apparatus having a footprint and a pressure sensitive transducer suitable for use in an electric vehicle in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. FIG.

25 is an isometric composite view of the device of FIG 24 ,

26 FIG. 12 is a schematic plan view of another illustrative driver detection apparatus having first and second sensor elements. FIG.

27 is a schematic plan view showing the device of 26 , which is integrated in a footprint of an electric vehicle, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

28 is a schematic sectional view of the floor space and a driver detection device of 27 taken along a line 28-28.

29 FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the steps in an illustrative process flow for an electric vehicle having a driver detection system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. FIG.

Detailed description

An electric vehicle with a driver detection system will be described below and illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the electric vehicle and / or its various components may, but not necessarily, include at least one of the assemblies, components, functionalities, and / or variants described, illustrated, and / or included herein. In addition, the arrangements, components, functionalities, and / or variants described herein in connection with a system or method may be shown and / or included, but not necessarily included in other similar systems or methods. The following description of various embodiments is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses.

overview

An electric vehicle, generally with 100 and components and functionalities associated therewith are in 1 to 29 shown. The vehicle 100 can be a self-stabilizing and / or self-balancing vehicle such. As an electrically powered self-balancing single-wheel skateboard, his. The vehicle 100 may have a driver position and / or movement similar to a surfboard or snowboard, which is the vehicle 100 can lead to an intuitive driving and ensures increased safety.

As in 1 shown, the vehicle can 100 a board 104 (or a Fußstandfläche or a frame or a platform), which include an opening 108 for receiving a wheel assembly 112 between first and second floor space areas 116 . 120 (or foot plates). The first and second floor areas 116 . 120 can be from the same physical piece or separate pieces. The first and second floor areas 116 . 120 can in the board 104 be included. The first and second floor areas 116 . 120 can each be aligned to support a driver's foot. The first and second floor areas 116 . 120 each may be configured to receive a left or a right foot of the driver.

The frame 104 can define a plane. The first floor space area 116 can on the frame 104 mounted and set up to support a first foot of the driver. The second floor space area 120 can on the frame 104 mounted and arranged to support a second foot of the driver.

The wheel arrangement 112 can be between the first and second floor space areas 116 . 120 to be ordered. The first and second floor areas 116 . 120 can be on opposite sides of the wheel assembly 112 with the board 104 dimensioned to approach a skateboard. In other embodiments, the board may approach a longboard skateboard, snowboard, surfboard, or, desirably, be re-dimensioned. The floor space areas 116 . 120 of the board 104 Can with non-slip material areas 124 . 128 (eg, an "anti-slip tape") to aid driver control.

The wheel arrangement 112 can be a ground contact element 132 (eg, a tire, a wheel, or a continuous body). As illustrated, the vehicle includes 100 exactly one ground contact element 132 and that is exactly one ground contacting element between the first and second land areas 116 . 120 arranged. The ground contact element 132 can be attached to a motor assembly 136 to be assembled. The engine arrangement 136 can at the board 104 to be assembled. The engine arrangement 136 can be an axis 140 (Sh. 2 ) Include with the board 104 by one or more axle brackets and one or more fasteners, such. B. a plurality of bolts (sh. 2 and 4 ) can be connected. The engine arrangement 136 can be set up to the ground contact element 132 around (or over) the axis 140 to turn around to the vehicle 100 drive. The engine arrangement 136 can z. B. a motor, such as. B. a wheel hub motor 144 , which is adapted to the ground contact element 132 around the axis 140 to turn around to the vehicle 100 to drive along the ground. The engine can be an electric motor.

The vehicle 100 may have a transverse axis A1, a longitudinal axis A2 and a yaw axis A3. The transverse axis A1 may be an axis about which a tire 132 through the engine assembly 136 is turned. The transverse axis A1 can z. B. by the axis 140 (For example, the transverse axis A1 may be parallel to or with a longitudinal direction of the axis 140 be aligned). The longitudinal axis A2 may be perpendicular to the transverse axis A1, and may extend substantially in a direction in which the vehicle 100 through the engine assembly 136 is driven. The longitudinal axis A2 can be in a Longitudinal direction of the board 104 extend. The yaw axis A3 can be perpendicular to the transverse axis A1 and to the longitudinal axis A2. The yaw axis A3 can z. B. be a normal to a plane through the floor space areas 116 . 120 is defined.

The wheel 132 can on the frame 104 between the floor space areas 116 . 120 to be assembled. The wheel 132 can be above and below the plane passing through the frame 104 is defined extend. The wheel 132 may be arranged to rotate about an axis (eg, a transverse axis A1) lying in the plane. In addition, the longitudinal axis A2 may lie in the plane passing through the frame 104 is defined. In some embodiments, the transverse and longitudinal axes may define the plane.

The mature 132 may be far enough in a heel-to-toe direction (eg, in a direction parallel to the transverse axis A1) so that the rider can balance himself in the heel / toe direction using his own balance. The mature 132 can be tubeless or with a hose. The mature 132 may be a non-pneumatic tire. The mature 132 can z. B. "airless", solid and / or made of foam. The mature 132 may have a profile so that the driver is the vehicle 100 over an edge of the tire 132 (and / or rotate the board around the longitudinal axis A2 and / or yaw axis A3. 11 and 12 ) can steer by a heel and / or toe pressure to the vehicle 100 to make a turn.

The wheel hub motor 144 can be inside the tire 132 (or Rades) mounted and internally toothed or be driven directly. The use of a wheel hub motor can eliminate chains and belts and provide a form factor that significantly improves maneuverability, weight distribution and aesthetics. A montage of the tire 132 at the wheel hub motor 144 can be carried out either by a two-piece design that can use hub adapters that can be bolted to the wheel hub motor, or by molding a housing of the wheel hub motor so that mounting flanges for a tire sidewall are provided directly on the housing of the wheel hub motor.

2 represents an embodiment of a wheel assembly 112 with screw-on hub adapters 148 . 152 dar. One or more fasteners, such. B. a plurality of bolts 156 , can be a first page of a hub motor 144 with the hub adapter 148 connect. The wheel hub motor 144 and hub adapter 148 can in an opening 158 of the tire 132 with an outer mounting flange 148a of the adapter 148 positioned adjacent a tire sidewall on a first side (not shown) of an opening 158 is positioned. One or more fasteners, such. B. a plurality of bolts 160 , can the hub adapter 152 with a second side of the wheel hub motor 144 connect, and an outer mounting flange 152a of the adapter 152 , the tire sidewall 162 is adjacent, on a second side of the opening 158 position. The mounting flanges 148a . 152a may engage the respective tire sidewalls, around an interior of the tire 132 for a subsequent filling seal. The mounting flanges 148a . 152a can with a tire 132 frictionally engaged to a rotation of the wheel hub motor 144 to the tire 132 transferred to.

The axis 140 can through a central opening of a first axle bracket 164 be used. An enlarged head area 140a the axis 140 can through the axle mount 164 being held. The middle opening of the holder 164 can z. B. have a reduced area with a diameter that is smaller than a diameter of the area 140a , A threaded area 140b the axis 140 can be continuous through a sleeve 168 , a central opening (not shown) of the hub adapter 148 , a middle opening 172 the wheel hub motor 144 , a middle opening of a hub adapter 152 , a middle opening 176 a torque rod 180 and a central opening of a second axle bracket 184 extend. After the threaded area 140b through the middle opening of the holder 184 can be extended, a mother 186 on the threaded area 140b be tightened to the wheel assembly 112 to secure a total. The middle opening of the holder 184 can z. B. have a reduced area with a diameter smaller than a diameter of the nut 186 is.

A non-circular element 190 can be fixed to a stator (sh. 3 ) of the wheel hub motor 144 to be ordered. When the wheel assembly 112 secured together, the item can 190 in a slot 180a of the torque rod 180 used and the torque rod 180 in a slot 184a the holder 184 be used. The slot 184a can be similar to a slot 164a the holder 164 shaped and / or dimensioned. The element 190 can frictionally engage with the bracket 184 engaged to a rotation of the stator during operation of the wheel hub motor 144 to prevent.

The sleeve 168 can be dimensioned to a desired distance of Radanordnungskomponenten between the brackets 164 . 184 provided. A first end of the sleeve 168 can z. B. in or adjacent to the central opening of the holder 164 be used, a second end the sleeve 168 may be adjacent to a side (not shown) of the opening 172 standing near the hub adapter 148 is to be used, and the sleeve 168 may have a length between its first and second ends which provides the desired spacing.

Preferably, the wheel hub motor 144 a direct drive brushless transversal flux motor. The use of a transverse flux motor can provide high (substantially) immediate and sustained torques to improve electric vehicle performance.

3 FIG. 12 illustrates a schematic example of a direct drive brushless transversal flow embodiment of the wheel hub motor 144 which is divided at the transverse axis. As shown, the wheel hub motor 144 magnets 192 include, on an inner surface of an outer wall of a rotor 194 are mounted (or are firmly secured to it). The rotor 194 can be fixed to the hub adapters 148 . 152 be arranged (sh. 2 ). A stator 196 can be fixed to a sleeve 198 be arranged, through which a middle opening 172 extends (sh. 2 ). The sleeve 198 can be through the rotor 194 extend. The sleeve 198 can firmly on the element 190 be arranged (sh. 2 ). The sleeve 198 can be on camps 200 move that on the rotor 194 are arranged. In some embodiments, the bearings 200 on the sleeve 198 be arranged and lean on a rotor 194 move. phase cable 202 can get through the opening 172 (or other suitable opening) and may electrically extend one or more electrical coils 203 of the stator 196 with one or more other electrical components (sh. 4 and 5 ) of the vehicle 100 , such as B. connect a power level. The one or more electrical components may be the hub motor 144 driving on the basis of a driver's input to the vehicle 100 to drive and actively balance (sh. 7 to 12 ). The one or more electrical components may, for. B. be set to a movement of a board 104 around the transverse axis and the wheel hub motor 144 drive to the tire 132 to rotate in a similar direction around the transverse axis. In addition, one or more electrical components may be arranged to facilitate movement of the board 104 to detect around the longitudinal axis and / or yaw axis, and modulate a ratio at which the motor is driven on the basis of this detected movement, which is a performance of a vehicle 100 can increase, especially when cornering.

The one or more electrical components may, for. B. set to selectively the electric coils based on inputs from a driver (eg., A movement of the board 104 ) to provide an electromagnetic field for applying forces to the magnets 192 to generate the desired rotation of the rotor 194 relative to the stator 196 to effect.

In some embodiments, the wheel hub motor 144 be a brush hub motor. Alternatively, the electric vehicle may include a device and / or a motor suitable for driving the hub of a wheel, such as a bicycle. As a chain drive, a belt drive, a gear drive and / or a brushless motor or brush motor, which is arranged outside of the wheel hub.

Preferably, the wheel hub motor 144 , the mature 132 and the axle mounts 164 . 184 together as a subassembly (eg, a wheel assembly 112 ) and then integrated into the vehicle as a whole (eg functioning in the board) 104 installed) to allow tire change and maintenance. The sub-assembly can be functional in the board 104 by connecting the brackets 164 . 184 on the board 104 be installed with one or more appropriate fasteners, such. B. respective bolts 204 . 206 (Sh. 2 ). 4 puts bolts 204 represents the holder 184 with a section of the board 104 connect. Bolts 206 can also use the bracket 164 with an opposite area of the board 104 connect. The axle mounts 164 . 184 Can be set up from the board 104 To be unlocked, and the engine can be set up by one or more electrical components in the board 104 are arranged to be removed to allow the driver, the sub-assembly of the board 104 to remove z. As the tire change or other maintenance in the wheel assembly 112 and / or at the board 104 perform.

It will open 1 and 4 Referenced. A first slide plate 208 can be in a first end of a board 104 be integrated (or connected) near a first floor space area 116 is, and a second slide plate 212 can be in a second end of the board 104 be integrated (or connected) near the second floor space area 120 is. The sliding plates 208 . 212 may be replaceable and / or optionally removable. The slip plates may comprise, for example, replaceable polymeric parts or components. In some embodiments, the slip plates may be arranged to allow the driver to drive the vehicle 100 stopping in a rectangular orientation (that is, by setting one end of the board against the ground after the driver removes his foot from a driver detection device or switch, which will be described later in detail). The respective slide plate may be worn down by abrasion with the surface of the floor when the end of the board is set against the floor (or brought into contact with it).

The vehicle 100 may include one or more side skid plates configured to coat the paint or other surface of the board 104 to protect, and / or otherwise the vehicle 100 protect when the vehicle 100 for example, it is turned on one side and / or slides along the ground on its side. For example, the one or more side skate plates may be removably connected to one or more opposing longitudinal sides of the board (eg, extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis). 1 puts a first side slide plate 216 which has a first longitudinal side 104a of the board 104 connected is. In 4 is the side slide plate 216 from a first longitudinal side 104a away. A second side slide plate (not shown) may also be removable with a second longitudinal side 104b (as in 4 ) of the board 104 , the first long side 104a opposite. The side skid plates may be included in the electric vehicle as one or more removable parts or components, and / or may be or include removable polymeric parts or components.

Removable connection of the slip plates and / or the side slip plates to the board may allow the driver (or other user) to selectively remove one or more of these plates that are worn down by abrasion and / or the worn plate (s). with one or more replacement plates to replace.

As in 4 shown, the vehicle can 100 a handle 220 include. The handle 220 can at a bottom 104c of the board 104 to be ordered. The handle 220 may be included in a housing or enclosure of one or more of the electrical components.

In some embodiments, the handle may be 220 be operated between ON and OFF positions. The handle 220 For example, it can be swiveled with the board 104 be connected, with the ON position the handle 220 which essentially corresponds with a bottom 104c of the board 104 is flush, and where the off position is the handle 220 corresponds to that from the bottom 104 is pivotable (or foldable), so that the handle 220 away from the floor space area 120 protrudes.

The vehicle 100 may be a suitable mechanism, a device or arrangement for releasing the handle 220 from the ON position. The vehicle 100 For example, a locking mechanism 224 which is set up to handle 220 between a locked state, the handle 220 , which is prevented from moving from the ON position to the OFF position, and an unlocked state corresponding to the handle 220 which is allowed to move from the ON position to the OFF position. In some embodiments, the driver may select the locking mechanism 224 Press to move the handle from the locked state to the unlocked state. The driver can handle 220 manually move from the ON position to the OFF position. The driver can handle 220 capture the vehicle 100 pick up from the ground and carry the vehicle from one place to another.

In some embodiments, the handle may be 220 a biasing mechanism, such as a spring, comprising the handle 220 automatically to the OFF position when pressed to the unlocked state. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 224 be set up to the handle 220 Optionally lock in the OFF position.

The vehicle 100 may include any suitable device, device, mechanism, and / or arrangement to prevent water, dirt, or other road debris from being transmitted to the driver by the ground contact element. As in 1 shown, the vehicle can 100 for example, first and second part fender areas 228 . 232 include. The area 228 is coupled with a first floor space area 116 represented and the area 232 is coupled to the second floor space area 120 shown. The area 228 can prevent dirt from the tire 132 is transmitted to an area of the driver, on or adjacent to the floor space area 116 is positioned, such as when the tire 132 is rotated counterclockwise about the transverse axis A1. The area 232 can prevent dirt from the tire 132 is transmitted to an area of the driver, on or adjacent to the floor space area 120 is positioned, such as when the tire 132 is rotated clockwise around the transverse axis A1.

Additionally and / or alternatively, the vehicle may 100 a full fender 240 include, as in 7 to 10 shown. The fender 240 can be arranged to prevent transmission of dirt from the ground contact element to the driver. A first area 240a the mudguard 240 can, for example, with the first floor space area 116 coupled, a second area 240b the mudguard 240 can with the second floor space area 120 coupled be, and a middle range 240c the mudguard 240 can be the first and second areas 240a . 240b the mudguard 240 above a region of the tire 132 connect that above an upper side of the board 104 stands out as in 7 shown.

The fender 240 and / or mudguard areas 228 . 232 can on at least one of the floor space areas 116 . 120 be arranged and set up to prevent the water from the wheel 132 is run through, points to the driver. The fender 240 can on both floor areas 116 . 120 be arranged and essentially the wheel 132 completely disconnect from the driver, as in 7 to 10 shown.

The fender 240 can be an elastic fender. The fender 240 For example, it may include (or be made of) a sheet of a substantially flexible or elastic material, such as plastic. A first side of the elastic material may be connected to the footprint area 116 (or the board 104 that is near the floor space area 116 is) and a second side of the elastic material may be connected to the footprint area 120 (or the board 104 that is near the floor space area 120 is) be coupled. An elasticity of the elastic material between the first and second sides may be the fender 240 away from the tire 132 pretension to an adequate distance between the fender 240 and the tire 132 to provide, as in 7 to 10 shown. The adequate distance can prevent the tire from contacting the fender.

The fender 240 (for example the area 240c ) may be in the direction of the tire 132 be compressible, if, for example, happens that the vehicle 100 turned around so the area 240c is in contact with the ground. If the vehicle 100 returns to a suitable driving position, such as in 7 As shown, the elasticity of the elastic material may restore the mudguard in a position providing the adequate clearance.

The fender 240 can extend across an entire width of the tire 132 in a direction parallel to the transverse axis A1, in a manner similar to that of the partial fender section 228 corresponds to that in 1 is shown widening. Likewise, the part-fender area 232 across the entire width of the tire 132 extend in the direction of the transverse axis A1.

As in 4 can represent the one or more electrical components of the vehicle 100 a power supply 250 , a motor controller 254 , a driver detection device 262 , a power switch 266 and a charging plug 268 include. The power supply 250 may include one or more rechargeable batteries, for example, one or more lithium batteries that are relatively light in weight and have a high power density. The power supply 250 For example, it may include one or more lithium iron phosphate batteries, one or more lithium polymer batteries, one or more lithium cobalt batteries, one or more lithium manganese batteries, or a combination thereof. The power supply 250 For example, it may comprise sixteen (16) A123 lithium iron phosphate batteries (for example, 26650 in size). The batteries of the power supply 250 can be arranged in a 16S1P configuration. A microcontroller 269 and / or one or more sensors (or at least one sensor) 270 can in the engine controller 254 be included or associated with it (see 5 ). At least one of the sensors 270 can be set up to receive alignment information (or alignment) of the board 104 to eat. The sensors 270 For example, it can be set up to move the board 104 to detect around and / or along the transverse, longitudinal and / or yaw axes. The engine can be set up to turn the wheel 132 based on the orientation of the board 104 to effect. In particular, the engine controller 254 be arranged to receive an alignment information provided by the at least one sensor of the sensors 270 is measured, and to cause the engine assembly 254 driving the electric vehicle on the basis of the registration information. The engine governor 254 can be set up, for example, to the wheel hub motor 144 on the basis of the received detected movement of the board 104 from the sensors 270 via the microcontroller 269 drive to the vehicle 100 to drive and / or actively balance.

One or more of the electrical components can be in the board 104 be included. The board 104 For example, it may include a first environmentally sealed housing that supplies the power 250 and a second environmentally sealed housing that houses the engine governor 254 and the driver detection device 262 can record. The environmental enclosures may protect the one or more electrical components from being damaged, such as by water ingress.

The vehicle 100 may include one or more light assemblies, such as one or more headlight and / or taillight assemblies. A first headlight / taillight assembly 272 (or first light assembly) can, for example on or at a first end portion of the board 104 (For example, at a distal end portion of the first floor space area 116 ) (and / or connected thereto), and a second headlight / taillight assembly 276 can be on or at a second end portion of the board 104 (For example, at a distal end portion of the second floor space area 120 ) (and / or connected thereto.) The second end portion of the board 104 may be opposite the first end region.

The headlight / taillight assemblies 272 . 276 can be set up to the vehicle 100 to illuminate reversibly. The assemblies 272 . 276 For example, the direction in which the vehicle is 100 moved, indicated by a color change. For example, the headlight / taillight assemblies may include one or more red and white high power LEDs 278 (or otherwise one or more suitable illuminators) configured to receive data from the microcontroller 269 (and / or from a pitch sensor of the sensors 270 such as a 3-axis gyro sensor 280 - please refer 5 ) and automatically change the color from red to white (or from white to red, or from a first color to a second color) based on the direction of movement of the vehicle 100 change white LEDs (or a first color) in the direction of movement and red LEDs (or a second color) backlit (for example, opposite to the direction of movement). For example, one or more of the headlight / taillight assemblies (or their respective illuminators) may be connected to the microcontroller 269 via an LED driver 282 (please refer 5 ) connected in the engine governor 254 be included or can be connected to it. In some embodiments, the illuminators may include RGB / RGBW LEDs.

The illuminators 278 can in slip plates 208 . 212 be arranged and / or protected by them, as in 4 shown. The sliding plates 208 . 212 For example, respective openings 286 . 290 include. The illuminators 278 can in the respective openings 286 . 290 be arranged and shine through them. The openings 286 . 290 can be sized to prevent the illuminators 278 contact the ground. The openings 286 . 290 For example, each may have a depth greater than a height of the illuminators 278 is. In some embodiments, the illuminators may be separable from the associated slip plates so that the slip plates can be removed without removing the illuminators.

As in 4 shown, are the first slide plate 208 and a first illuminator 278 at a distal end of the first floor space area 116 and the second slide plate 212 and a second illuminator 278 at a distal end of the second floor space area 120 arranged. Each of the skid plates may include an opening (for example, the skid plate 208 the opening 286 and the slide plate 212 the opening 290 as noted above) configured to allow light from the corresponding illuminator to illuminate while preventing the illuminator from contacting the ground.

Illustrative electrical system

5 FIG. 12 illustrates a block diagram of one or more electrical components of the vehicle. FIG 100 The electrical components can be a power management system 300 , a DC to DC (DC / DC) converter 304 , a brushless DC (BLDC) drive logic 306 , a performance level 310 , a three-axis accelerometer 314 , one or more Hall sensors 318 and an engine temperature sensor 322 include. The DC-DC converter 304 , the BLDC drive logic 306 and the power level 310 can in the engine controller 254 be included and / or associated with it. The accelerometer 314 can in the sensors 270 be included.

Active balance (or self-stabilization) of the electric vehicle may be achieved through the use of a feedback control loop or mechanism deployed in the one or more electrical components. The feedback control mechanism may be sensors 270 include that with the engine governor 254 are connected (and / or contained in).

Preferably, the feedback control mechanism comprises a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control including one or more gyro sensors (eg, a gyro sensor 280 ) and one or more accelerometers (for example an accelerometer 314 ) used. The gyrosensor 280 can be set up to pivot the footrest surface 104 to measure around the transverse axis. The gyrosensor 280 and the accelerometer 314 can be set up together to a tilt angle of the board 104 such as estimating (or measuring or sensing) the footing surface about the transverse, longitudinal and yaw axes. In some embodiments, the gyro sensor and accelerometer 314 be set up together to detect an orientation information sufficient to the inclination angle of the frame 104 including a pivotal movement about the lateral, longitudinal and yaw axes.

As mentioned above, the alignment information of the board 104 through the gyrosensor 280 and accelerometers 314 measured (or recorded). The respective measurements (or detection signals) from the gyrosensor 280 and accelerometers 214 can be combined using a Complementary or Kalman filter to give a tilt angle of the board 104 to appreciate (for example, a pivoting movement of the board 104 around the transverse, longitudinal and / or yaw axes, wherein the pivotal movement about the transverse axis corresponds to an inclination angle, the pivotal movement about the longitudinal axis corresponds to a longitudinal or heel-toe angle, and a pivotal movement about the yaw axis around a yaw angle corresponds), while the bumps of bumps, road surfaces and disturbance variables are filtered out as a result of the steering inputs. The gyrosensor 280 and accelerometers 314 For example, with the microcontroller 269 be connected, which may be set up to a movement of the board 104 to measure accordingly along and along the transverse, longitudinal and yaw axes (see 1 ). Alternatively, the electric vehicle may include any suitable sensor and feedback control circuit configured to stabilize a vehicle itself, such as a one-axis gyro sensor configured to measure pivotal movement of the board about the transverse axis, an on Axis accelerometer configured to measure a gravitational vector and / or another suitable feedback control loop, such as a closed loop transfer function. However, an additional accelerometer and gyro sensor may provide improved performance and functionality, such as detecting whether the board has rolled over its side or whether the driver is making a turn.

The feedback loop can be set up to the engine 144 drive to an angle of the board 104 with respect to the soil. When the driver is in 1 for example the board 104 would tilt down, leaving the first floor space area 116 lower than the second floor space area 120 is (for example if the driver is the board 104 then rotates clockwise about the transverse axis A1), then the feedback control loop can control the motor 144 drive to a rotation of the tire 132 clockwise about the transverse axis A1 (see 9 ) and a force on the board 104 counterclockwise.

Thus, a movement of the electric vehicle by the driver can be achieved, which tends its weight towards his forefoot. Likewise, a deceleration by the driver can be achieved, which leans towards his rear foot. Regenerative braking can be used to slow the vehicle down. A sustained reverse operation can be achieved by the driver maintaining his displacement towards his rear foot.

As in 5 shown, the microcontroller 269 be set up to send a signal to the BLDC drive logic 306 to send information regarding the orientation and movement of the board 104 can communicate. The BLDC drive logic 306 can then evaluate the signal and with the power level 310 communicate, and consequently the engine 104 drive. The Hall sensors 318 may send a signal to the BLDC drive logic to provide feedback regarding a substantially instantaneous speed ratio of the rotor of the motor. The engine temperature sensor 322 Can be set to a temperature of the engine 144 to measure and this measured temperature to logic 306 to send. The logic 306 can be an amount of electricity to the engine 144 is supplied, based on the measured temperature of the engine 144 limit to the engine 144 to protect against overheating.

Certain modifications to the PID loop or other suitable feedback loop may be included to enhance the performance and safety of the electric vehicle. Integrity saturation can be prevented by limiting a maximum integrator value, and an exponential function can be used for a tilt error angle (e.g., a measured or estimated tilt angle of the board 104 ).

Alternatively, or in addition, some embodiments may include neural network control, fuzzy control, genetic algorithm control, linear quadratic regulator control, state dependent Riccati equation control, or other control algorithms. In some embodiments, absolute or relative encoders may be included to provide feedback of the motor position.

During a rotation, as mentioned above, the angle of inclination may be through the heel-toe angle (eg, pivotal movement of the board about the longitudinal axis - see FIG 11 ), which can improve performance and prevent a front inner edge of the board 104 touched the ground. In some embodiments, the feedback circuit may be configured to increase, decrease, or otherwise modulate the speed of the tire as the board is pivoted about the longitudinal and / or yaw axes. This modulation of the rotational speed of the tire can apply a normal force between an area of the board and the driver, and the driver with a feeling of the "carving" when cornering, similar to the feeling when carving with a snowboard through snow or a surfboard through the water.

Once the driver has self-positioned himself on the board, the control loop may be set up to perform no activity until the driver moves the board to a predetermined orientation. An algorithm can, for. For example, be included in the feedback loop so that the loop is not active (eg, does not drive the motor) until the driver uses his weight to bring the board to an approximate horizontal orientation (eg, a zero -Grade tilt angle - as in 8th shown). Once this predetermined alignment is detected, the feedback loop may be enabled (or activated) to balance the electric vehicle and transition the electric vehicle from a stationary mode (or configuration or state or orientation) to a motion mode (or configuration or state) Alignment).

It will be up again 5 Referenced. The one or more electrical components can be set up to supply the power 250 to handle. The power management system 300 can z. B. a battery management system, which is adapted to batteries of the power supply 250 to be protected, overloaded, deep-discharged and / or short-circuited. The system 300 can monitor a battery condition, a state of charge in the power supply 250 monitor and / or increase the safety of the vehicle. The power management system 300 can with a charging plug 268 and the power supply 250 get connected. The driver (or another user) can use a charger with the plug 268 connect and power 250 about the system 300 recharge.

For operation, the power switch 266 be activated (eg by the driver). Activation of the switch 266 can be a power-on signal to the converter 304 send. In response to the power ON signal, the converter 304 a direct current from a first voltage level caused by the power supply 250 is to convert to one or more other voltage levels. The other voltage levels may differ from the first voltage level. The converter 304 can be connected to other electrical components via one or more electrical components to provide these electrical components with appropriate voltages.

The converter 304 (or other suitable circuit), the power-on signal to the microcontroller 269 transfer. In response to the power ON signal, the microcontroller may have sensors 270 and the driver detection device 262 initialize.

The electric vehicle may include one or more security mechanisms, such as B. a power switch 266 and / or a driver detection device 262 to ensure that the driver is on the board before engaging the feedback loop. In some embodiments, the driver detection device 262 to determine whether the driver's feet are disposed on the footwell and to send a signal to cause the engine 144 enters an active state when it is determined that the driver's feet are on the footrest surface 104 are arranged.

The driver detection device 262 may include a suitable mechanism, arrangement, or apparatus for determining if the driver is on the electric vehicle. The device 262 can z. As one or more mechanical buttons, one or more capacitive sensors, one or more inductive sensors, one or more optical switches, one or more force-resistant sensors and / or one or more strain gauges. The one or more mechanical buttons may be on or below each or both of the first and second floor areas 116 . 120 be arranged (sh. 1 ). The one of the plurality of mechanical buttons may be pressed directly (eg, when placed on the floor space areas) or indirectly (eg, when positioned below the floor space areas) to detect if the driver is on the board 104 located. The one or more capacitive sensors and / or the one or more inductive sensors may be disposed on or near a surface of each or both of the floor areas, and may accordingly detect whether the driver is experiencing a change in capacitance or a change in inductance located on the board. Likewise, the one or more optical switches may be disposed on or near the surface of one or both footprint areas. The one or more optical switches may detect whether the driver is on the board based on an optical signal. The one or more strain gauges may be arranged to measure a board or axle flexibility transmitted by the rider's feet to detect if the rider is on the board. In some embodiments, the device may 262 include a hand-held "deadman" switch. Various embodiments and aspects relating to the device 262 discussed further below in the section entitled illustrative driver detection devices, system and method.

When the device 262 detects that the driver has positioned himself suitably on the electric vehicle, then sends the device 262 a driver present signal to the microcontroller 269 , The driver present signal may be the signal that causes the engine 144 enters the active state. In response to the driver presence signal (and / or the board being moved for horizontal alignment), the microcontroller may provide the feedback control circuit for driving the motor 144 activate. In response to the driver present signal, the microcontroller may 269 z. A board alignment information (or measurement data) from the sensors 270 to logic 306 to power the engine 144 about a performance level 310 send.

When the device 262 detects that the driver is no longer properly positioned or no longer present on the electric vehicle, the device 262 in some embodiments, a driver non-existent signal to the microcontroller 269 send. In response to the driver non-existent signal, the vehicle's circuitry may 100 (eg the microcontroller 269 , the logic 306 and / or the power level 310 ) to reduce a rotational speed of the rotor relative to the stator to the vehicle 100 to stop. The electric coils of the rotor can z. B. be selectively energized to reduce the speed of the rotor. In response to the driver non-presence signal, in some embodiments, the circuit may be arranged to energize the electrical coils at a relatively high and / or substantially continuous constant voltage to lock the rotor with respect to the stator to prevent that the rotor rotates relative to the stator and / or to stop the rotor suddenly.

In some embodiments, the vehicle may be configured to power the engine 144 to actively drive, even if the driver is not present on the vehicle (eg, temporarily), which may allow the driver to perform various tricks. The device 262 can z. B. configured to delay the transmission of the driver non-existent signal to the microcontroller for a predetermined period of time, and / or the microcontroller may be arranged to send the signal to the logic 306 to decelerate to separate the current to the motor for a predetermined period of time.

The electric vehicle may include other security mechanisms, e.g. B. a buzzer mechanism. The buzzer mechanism may be arranged to output an audio signal (or buzzer) to the driver when the circuitry within the electric vehicle detects an error. The Buzzer mechanism can, for. B. issue an error signal to the driver when the circuit within the electric vehicle does not undergo a diagnostic test (see. 6 ).

Clear operating procedure

6 represents several steps of a procedure (or operations) that are commonly involved 600 are indicated by the vehicle 100 or in connection with the vehicle 100 can be executed. Although different steps of the procedure 600 described below and in 6 not all steps necessarily have to be performed, and in some cases, they may be executed in a different order than in the illustrated order.

The procedure 600 may include an initialization procedure, a standby procedure, and an operational procedure. The initialization process can be one step 602 to activate a power switch. At the step 602 can the driver z. B. the switch 266 press (sh. 4 ). The initialization process can then go to step 604 go over to perform one or more diagnostics. The circuit of the vehicle 100 can z. B. Perform one or more diagnostic tests to determine if one or more electrical components are properly actuated. The engine governor 254 can z. B. at the step 604 perform a self-diagnostic to determine if any components thereof, such as B. the performance level, are operational.

The initialization process can be one step 606 to determine whether the diagnosis made at step 606 has been run through. When at the step 606 it is determined that the diagnoses have not been made, then the procedure can 600 to a step 608 go over to issue an error signal and go to step 610 go over to turn off the vehicle. The vehicle 100 can z. For example, an audible buzzer may be output via the buzzer mechanism or a light signal (eg, by illuminating the illuminators 278 ), if it is determined that the diagnostics have not been run, and can prevent the engine governor 254 the engine 144 powered. In some embodiments, turning off the vehicle may involve locking the rotor with respect to the stator. The engine controller can, for. B. energize the electric coils of the stator with a substantially constant current continuously, to prevent the rotor rotates relative to the stator. If, however, at the step 606 is determined that the diagnoses have been passed, then the initialization process to step 612 go over to the sensors 270 to initialize.

As in 6 shown, the initialization process can then go to the standby process. The standby process can take one step 614 for determining whether a driver is detected. The circuit of the vehicle 100 can z. B. Determine if the driver is detected that he is fit on the board 104 (eg with one foot on the first floor space area 116 and the other foot on the second floor space area 120 , as in 7 shown) based on a received signal from the driver detection device 262 is positioned. When at the step 614 it is determined that the driver is not detected on the vehicle, then the step 614 be repeated until a driver is detected. In some embodiments, the device may 262 essentially, continuously transmitting the driver present signal to the circuit when the driver is positioned on the vehicle, and / or substantially continuously transmitting the driver non-existent signal to the circuit when the driver is not positioned on the vehicle. In some embodiments, the device may 262 send these signals periodically based on the position of the driver.

When at the step 614 It is determined that a driver is detected who is suitable on the board 104 is positioned as in 7 then the standby process may proceed to step 616 go over one or more measurements (eg alignment information) from the sensors 270 (eg from the gyrosensor 280 and accelerometers 314 ) to read or receive.

The standby process can take one step 618 To determine whether the board 104 is in the horizontal orientation (or other predefined and / or predetermined orientation). The circuit of the vehicle 100 can determine if the board is 104 in the horizontal orientation on the basis of the measurements taken by the sensors 270 at the step 616 are received. When at the step 618 it is determined that the board is not in the horizontal orientation, as in 7 then the standby process may proceed to step 614 to return.

If, however, at the step 618 It is determined that the board 104 in the horizontal orientation, as in 8th 4, the standby sequence may then proceed to operation (eg, to initialize vehicle self-balancing) via the feedback control loop, an example of which will generally be referred to 620 in 6 designated. The circle 620 may be a closed-loop balancing routine that may be repeated until the driver is no longer detected.

The circle 620 can take a step 622 for reading or receiving one or more measurements from the sensors 270 include. At the step 622 can z. B. the microcontroller 269 (or other circuit) acceleration measurements of the board 104 along the transverse, longitudinal and yaw axes of the accelerometer 314 obtained, and can take position measurements of the board 104 over the transverse, longitudinal and yaw axes of the gyro sensor 280 receive.

The circle 620 can take a step 624 to apply sensor adjustments to one or more of the measurements made in step 622 to be obtained. The calibrations for the accelerometer and the gyrosensor can, for. B. at the step 612 during an initialization, which in step 624 for the measurements taken at the step 622 can be applied to substantially correct the sensor deviations.

The circle 620 can take a step 626 for combining sensor values. At the step 626 can z. B. the microcontroller 269 Measurements from the accelerometer 314 and gyrosensor 280 that at the step 622 obtained (including or not including the calibrations applied), combine with the Complementary or Kalman filter.

The circle 620 can take a step 628 for calculating (or determining) the inclination angle of the board 104 include. Based on the combined measurements from the accelerometer 314 and gyrosensor 280 can the microcontroller 628 at the step 628 determine the angle of inclination.

As described above, the angle of inclination may be the transverse, longitudinal and yaw angles of the board 104 include. As in 9 pictured, the driver can see the board 104 pivot about the transverse axis A1 to produce an inclination angle θ1, whereby the microcontroller at step 630 can determine that the board 104 an inclination angle θ1 based on the combined measurements (eg, alignment information) from the accelerometer 314 and gyrosensor 280 having. As shown, the angle of inclination may be based on an orientation of the board 104 with respect to the horizontal orientation. The horizontal orientation can be determined or calculated on the basis of a measured gravitational vector.

The circle 620 can take a step 630 for calculating a false angle. The error angle may be an estimate or calculation of a shift of the board from the horizontal orientation based on alignment information of the sensors 270 be. In the in 9 As shown alignment, the microcontroller z. For example, determine that the inclination angle θ1 is the error angle. At the step 630 can the microcontroller 269 the error angle with respect to a gravitational vector measurement, that of the accelerometer 314 is obtained, calculate (or determine).

The circle 620 can take a step 632 for calculating P (proportional), I (integral), and D (differential) values for the PID control scheme. These values can be used to filter bumps on the ground, road surface and / or disturbances due to inadvertent sudden longitudinal inputs.

The circle 620 can take a step 634 for sending a motor command (or motor control signal) to the motor 144 include. At the step 634 For example, the engine controller may output the engine control signal in response to the alignment information provided by the sensors 270 is received, generate. The motor 144 can be set to the engine control signal from the engine governor 254 to receive and around the wheel 132 to rotate in response to the registration information.

At the step 634 can the microcontroller 269 z. B. a signal to the logic 306 with information corresponding to the calculated inclination angle, the calculated error angle (which may be the calculated inclination angle or a percentage thereof) and / or the calculated P, I and D values. Based on this information, the BLDC drive logic 306 determine how the engine 144 is to drive accordingly. The logic 306 can z. B. determine that the rotor of the engine 144 clockwise (in 9 ) should be driven at a first ratio based on a pitch angle θ1 in order to try the board 104 move back to horizontal alignment, and a corresponding motor command to power level 310 send. The performance level 310 then can the engine 144 via phase cable 202 (Sh. 3 ) energize accordingly. When the driver applies a downward pressure on the floor space area 116 can sustain, the clockwise rotation of the rotor of the motor 144 to a right-side drive of the vehicle 100 in 9 to lead.

As in 9 shown, in response to the motor command, the illuminators 278 that with the floor space area 116 connected white light WL, and illuminators 278 that with the floor space area 120 are connected to emit red light RL when the vehicle 100 moved to the right.

It will refer back to 6 taken. The circle 620 can take a step 636 for determining whether the driver is detected (eg, suitable on the board 104 is positioned). The microcontroller may determine this determination based on a signal from the driver detection device, e.g. B. in a manner similar to that of the step 614 is. In some embodiments, the determination of whether the driver is detected may be based on engine torque (eg, a reduction in engine torque below a predefined threshold) or vehicle orientations that may indicate that the electric vehicle is not in driver control (e.g. B. an excessive transverse, longitudinal and / or yaw angle or a modulation thereof).

When at the step 636 is determined that the driver is not detected (that he has fallen, for example, jumped off or otherwise left the electric vehicle), then the operation of the step 638 go over to the engine 144 to stop, and to move to 614 to return. At the step 638 For example, stopping the motor may include locking the rotor with respect to the stator such that the ground contact element (eg, the tires) stops rotating about the transverse axis relative to the board. The engine controller can, for. B. at the step 638 energizing the electric coils of the stator with a substantially continuous, constant and / or relatively large electric current to produce a substantially constant and / or strong electromagnetic field for stopping rotation of the magnets of the rotor about the transverse axis with respect to the stator.

If, however, at the step 636 it is determined that the driver is detected (eg, is still suitably positioned on the electric vehicle), then the circle 620 to the step 622 return and the circle 620 be repeated. In a subsequent repetition of the circle 620 can the driver z. For example, the board 104 to an orientation with an inclination angle θ2 (see FIG. 9 ) have moved. The inclination angle θ2 may be a further pivotal movement of the board 104 around the transverse axis A1 with respect to the orientation of the board 104 correspond as in 9 represented, so the floor space area 116 further down below the horizontal orientation and the floor space area 120 has been further moved to above the horizontal orientation. In this subsequent repetition of the circle 620 , the circuit of the vehicle 100 energize the rotor in a clockwise direction at a second ratio based on the angle of inclination θ2 in order to try the board 104 move back to horizontal orientation. The second ratio may be greater than the first ratio.

In another subsequent repetition of the circle 620 the driver can do the board 104 to an orientation with an inclination angle θ3 (see FIG. 10 ) have moved. As shown, the inclination angle θ3 corresponds to a pivotal movement of the board 104 around the transverse axis A1, so that the floor space area 120 below the horizontal orientation and the floor space area 116 has been moved to above the horizontal orientation. In this subsequent repetition of the circle 620 can the circuit of the vehicle 100 the rotor of the engine 144 energize to counterclockwise (as in 10 shown) at a third ratio based on the inclination angle θ3 to try to try the board 104 move back to horizontal orientation. When the driver puts the downward pressure on the floor space area 120 can sustain, the counterclockwise rotation of the rotor of the engine 144 to a left-side drive of the vehicle 100 in 10 to lead. An absolute value of the third ratio may correspond to a larger ratio than an absolute value of the first ratio since 10 an angle θ3 is shown to be larger in magnitude than angle θ1 in FIG 9 exhibit. Also, an absolute value of the third ratio may correspond to a smaller ratio than an absolute value of the second ratio, since the angle θ3 is shown to be smaller in magnitude than angle θ2 in FIG 9 exhibit.

As mentioned above, the light assemblies can change color when the vehicle 100 the direction reverses. In response to the reverse direction of movement of the vehicle 100 (with respect to the direction of movement in 9 is shown), as in 10 Illuminators can be shown 278 that with the floor space area 116 are connected, z. From the white light to emit red light RL, and illuminators 278 that with the floor space area 120 can switch from the emitted red light to the emitted white light WL when the vehicle 100 moved to the left.

In particular, illuminators can 28 the first light assembly (e.g., at the first end portion of the board 104 on the right side of 9 are arranged) to output light of a first color (eg, white) when the board 104 is generally driven in a first direction (such as in 9 displayed to the right), and to output light of a second color (such as red) when the board 104 generally driven in a second direction (eg, to the left in FIG 10 ).

Likewise, illuminators can 278 the second light assembly (e.g., at the second end portion of the board 104 on the left side of 9 are arranged) to output light of the second color (eg, red) when the board 104 is generally driven in the first direction (eg in 9 displayed to the right), and to output light of the first color (for example, white) when the board 104 generally driven in the second direction (eg, to the left in FIG 10 ).

The vehicle 100 may include a rotation compensation function. The rotation compensation function can set a speed at which the motor 144 is driven on the basis of the longitudinal angle of the board. The driver can, for example, the board 104 from the horizontal orientation to a rotated orientation about a longitudinal axis A2 as in 11 illustrated by changing a heel and / or toe pressure applied to the board 104 is applied, pivoting, which leads to a longitudinal angle θ 4, whereby the step 628 from 6 calculating the longitudinal angle θ 4 based on alignment information from the sensors 270 may contain. If the board 104 also around the transverse axis (which, for example, has the inclination angle θ 1 or θ 3, as in each case in FIG 9 and 10 shown) is pivoted around, then at the step 634 from 6 the circuit gives an increased amount of energy to the engine 144 on the basis of the longitudinal angle θ 4 to the rotational speed of the rotor and thus of the tire 132 to increase. An order of magnitude of the increased amount of energy may be based on an order of magnitude of the longitudinal angle, wherein a larger longitudinal angle size corresponds to a greater increase in energy, and a smaller longitudinal angle size corresponds to a smaller increase in energy.

The rotation compensation function can also set a speed at which the motor 144 based on a change in the yaw angle of the board 104 is driven. The driver can, for example, the board 104 from a first orientation (as in dashed, double dotted lines in FIG 12 shown) to a second orientation (as shown in solid lines in FIG 12 shown) pivot about the yaw axis A3, resulting in a yaw angle change θ 5. If in this second alignment the board 104 is also aligned to have a tilt angle, then at the step 634 from 6 the circuit gives an increased amount of energy to the engine 144 on the basis of the yaw angle change θ 5 to the rotational speed of the rotor and thus of the tire 132 to increase.

7 to 12 represent an actuation sequence of the vehicle 100 represents. 7 puts the driver on the board 104 The starting orientation may correspond to an orientation where the driver's feet are on the floor area 120 press down to the Stand area 120 to tension against the ground, and correspond to the other orientation, with the driver's feet on the floor area area 116 are positioned. As shown, the right foot of the driver is down on the floor space area 120 pressed, and the left foot of the driver is with the floor space area 116 in contact. The board 104 however, it can be set up to allow the driver to drive the vehicle 100 in a "switch stance", with the left foot resting on the floor space area 120 and the right foot on the floor space area 116 located. At (or before) the starting position, the driver can drive the vehicle 100 by pressing the switch 266 (please refer 4 ) turn on. In the starting position can the circuit of the vehicle 100 a rotation of the rotor with respect to the stator (see 3 ) by, for example, energizing the electric coils with a relatively strong and substantially continuous constant current (and / or mechanically locking and / or generating increased friction between the rotor and the stator), or stopping the driver when moving the motor Bretts 104 support for horizontal alignment. The circuit of the vehicle 100 can be set up to eliminate this rotation obstruction when the registration information from the sensors indicates that the board 104 has been moved to horizontal alignment.

The driver can do the board 104 to move horizontally by moving its weight, as in 8th presented to the board 104 to pivot about the transverse axis A1 around. A movement of the board 104 for horizontal alignment can be an active balancing of the vehicle 100 over the control loop 620 initialize (see 6 ). In some embodiments, the circuit of the vehicle 100 be set up to the circle 620 to initialize (or to continue) after the board 104 in the horizontal orientation (or a range of orientations near the horizontal orientation) for a predetermined period of time (for example one second) has been maintained, which may provide an adequate delay to ensure that the driver is the vehicle 100 controlled.

As in 9 pictured, the driver can see the board 104 pivot about the transverse axis A1 through the angle θ 1 to the vehicle 100 "Forward" (ie to the right in 9 ) via a clockwise rotation by the motor 144 is provided to move. The driver can turn clockwise in the engine 144 increase, and thus the forward speed of the vehicle 100 by further pivoting the board 104 Increase clockwise, for example, to produce the inclination angle θ 2.

If the driver is the speed of the vehicle 100 by pressing the floor space area 116 further increases in the direction of the ground (for example, the inclination angle θ 2), the power output of the engine 144 approximate a maximum power output. At the maximum power output of the engine 144 may be pressing the floor space area 116 further toward the bottom, a leading end of the board may contact the ground at a relatively high speed, which may result in an accident. To prevent a likelihood of an accident, the vehicle may 100 a performance margin display function configured to give the driver a margin between a current output of the engine 144 and the maximum power output of the engine 144 display. If, for example, the current power output of the engine 144 reaches a predetermined margin threshold near the maximum power output (if, for example, the engine 144 is driven at a relatively high speed or speed and the driver is the board 104 to the transverse axis θ 2 pivots), the circuit of the vehicle 100 to increase the power pulse (for example, when the margin threshold is increased but less than or equal to the maximum power output) to the motor 144 to send the driver back and the board 104 move back toward the (and / or) horizontal orientation (or even farther back in some embodiments). In some embodiments, the performance margin indicator may communicate a ratio between the current power output and the maximum power output by emitting an audio signal (for example, the buzzer) or a visual signal (for example, the tachometer). In some embodiments, the performance margin indicator may be configured to also indicate a margin (or ratio) between the current power output and the maximum power output when the vehicle 100 is driven in reverse, as in 10 shown.

While the board 104 is pivoted to have a tilt angle with respect to the horizontal orientation, as in 9 and 10 pictured, the driver can see the board 104 pivot around the longitudinal axis A2, as in 11 shown to modulate the current to the motor.

While the board 104 is pivoted to have a tilt angle with respect to the horizontal orientation, the driver can the board 104 also pivot around the yaw axis A3, as in 12 shown to modulate the current to the motor.

Clear peripheral systems and software

In some embodiments, one or more electric vehicles may each be similar to the vehicle 100 are and / or include, monitored, altered and / or controlled by one or more peripheral devices. Examples of these systems and related components are in 13 to 23 shown.

13 is a vivid system that is usually with 700 is designated. The system 700 can the vehicle 100 in conjunction with a wireless electronic device 710 include. The device 710 may be any suitable wireless electronic device including a transmitter TX and / or a receiver RX. The device 710 For example, it may be a smartphone, tablet computer, or any other wireless electronic device that can wirelessly transmit and / or receive data.

The device 710 can be set up to firmware the vehicle 100 (for example, the microcontroller 269 ) to upgrade and / or change wirelessly. The device 710 can, for example, an encrypted firmware package from a server 720 via a network, such as a cloud network. The device 710 the packet can be sent from a transmitter TX of the device 710 to a receiver RX of the vehicle 100 send. In some embodiments, the vehicle may 100 a transmitter TX for data transmission regarding the actuation state of the vehicle 100 to a receiver RX of the device 710 include. The reception of the data by the device 710 can the device 710 prompt to get the package from the server 720 download.

The device 710 may be a processor (or a processor unit - see 23 ), a storage device (see 23 ) and a program 800 (or a software application) having a plurality of instructions stored in the storage device. The plurality of instructions may be executed by the processor to collect data from the vehicle 100 be sent to receive the received data from the vehicle 100 on a graphical user interface (GUI) of the device 710 represent a component configuration of the vehicle 100 on the GUI of the device 710 represent the data to the vehicle 100 to send one or more components of the vehicle 100 to reconfigure (or change) one or more components of the vehicle 100 to control and / or one or more of the functions in 14 to 20 are shown execute.

14 provides a schematic block diagram of various functions used in the application 800 may be included. The application 800 can be a driving mode selector function 802 include. The function 802 can be set up to allow the driver (or other user) a driving mode of the vehicle 100 select and / or switch. The function 802 can, for example, a maximum speed limit selector 804 , a highest acceleration limit selector 806 , a loop gain selector 808 and / or a rotation compensation parameter selector 810 include. The selector 804 For example, it may allow a maximum speed limit of the vehicle (eg, the rotor relative to the stator) to be selected (and / or set). For example, the driver can be a beginner, which makes the selector 804 can be used to set the maximum speed limit to a relatively low speed, such as two miles per hour (MPH). At a later time and / or when the driver becomes more experienced in operating the electric vehicle, the driver may select the selector 804 use to increase the maximum speed limit (for example to 8 MPH). In another example, the electric vehicle may be used by multiple users, at least one of whom may be a beginner and at least one of whom may be more experienced. The selector 804 can be used to set the maximum speed limit to a lower speed for the beginner and a higher speed for the more experienced driver. The selector 806 can also be used to select a maximum acceleration limit of the electric vehicle (for example, the rotor relative to the stator).

The selector 808 can be set up to increase the control loop of the electric vehicle (see, for example, the feedback control loop 620 in 6 ) to be reduced, increased or otherwise modulated. For example, the gain may determine a ratio at which the speed of the rotor of the motor 144 is changed, depending on how the inclination angle (for example, the inclination angle) of the board 104 has been changed. When using the selector 808 In order to set the gain to a lower level, a first change in the tilt angle may correspond to a lower acceleration of the electric vehicle. By using the selector to set the gain to a higher level, the first change in tilt angle may correspond to a greater acceleration of the electric vehicle. Setting the gain may include changing one or more gains of the PID loop, such as proportional gain (Kp), integral gain (Ki), and / or a derivative gain (Kd). However, changing the proportional gain may more drastically change a driving feel of the vehicle compared to changing the integral gain and / or derivative gain.

The selector 810 can be set up to allow one or more rotation compensation parameters to be selected and / or set. The selector 810 For example, it may allow the user to select whether the longitudinal angle is used to modulate the motor command and / or set a gain according to a ratio between the longitudinal angle and the modulation of the motor command. The selector 810 may also allow the user to select whether a yaw angle change is used to modulate the motor command and / or set a gain corresponding to a ratio between the yaw angle change and the modulation of the motor command.

The application 800 can have a battery status function 812 exhibit. The function 812 For example, on the GUI, an amount of available power remaining in the power supply (eg, one or more batteries) of the electric vehicle may be presented or otherwise communicated to the user. The function 812 For example, it may represent a remaining battery power as a percentage and / or a distance that corresponds to how much of the remaining power the electric vehicle can still drive. If the electric vehicle is connected to a charger to recharge the power, then the function can 812 indicate (or notify) a period of time until the power is fully recharged.

The application 800 can have an odometer function 814 include. The function 814 may indicate (or otherwise communicate) a total distance that the electric vehicle has been driven or operated. For example, the circuit of the electric vehicle may send data representative of a total rotational speed of the tire of the electric vehicle to the wireless electronic device. The wireless electronic device can then measure the distance required by the function 814 notified (or updated) on the basis of the data sent.

The application 800 can be a light mode selector 816 include. The electric vehicle may include a plurality of light modes, such as first, second, third, fourth and fifth light modes. The first light mode may be configured to reversibly illuminate the headlamp / taillight assemblies (to change the color of the illuminators of the assemblies based on the direction of travel of the electric vehicle). The second light mode may be set up to not reversibly illuminate the headlamp / taillight assemblies (for example, not to change the colors based on the direction of movement). The third light mode can be set up to output brighter light from the headlight / taillight assemblies (for example for night driving). The fourth light mode can be set up to output darker light from the headlight / taillight assemblies (for example for day trips). The fifth light mode can be set up to illuminate the illuminators from one or both of the headlight / tail lamp assemblies (for example, to increase the visibility of the electric vehicle).

The selector 816 may enable selection of one or more modes from the plurality of light modes. The driver can, for example, the selector 816 to select the first light mode and the third light mode, resulting in the headlamp / taillight assemblies being reversibly illuminated and emitting a greater amount of light. The driver can subsequently select the selector 816 use to deactivate the third light mode, and select the fourth light mode to reduce the power consumption of the electric vehicle. In some embodiments, the selector 816 used to toggle the headlight / taillight assemblies between the ON and OFF modes.

The application 800 can be an information function 818 include. The function 818 may be set up to collect diagnostic, service, fault and / or debugging information from the electric vehicle and to display (or otherwise communicate) this information to the user. The function 818 For example, it may capture and / or indicate information (or data) representative of, indicative of, corresponding to, and / or associated with: a battery voltage, current ampere current, total ampere hours, regenerated or renewed amp hours (e.g. Example, an amount of electrical energy recovered by regenerative braking), current tilt angle of the board, safety margin (for example, representative of the current output of the engine with respect to the maximum power output of the engine, such as the current power output represented by a percentage maximum power output), current engine temperature, history of engine temperatures, total battery cycles and / or indication of an operating condition of one of the foregoing.

The application 800 can be a security feature 820 include. The function 820 can be set up to prevent unauthorized use of the electric vehicle. The function 820 For example, it may be set up to toggle the electric vehicle between an on mode and a non-on mode. The on mode may allow the electric vehicle engine to be powered. The disabled mode may prevent the electric vehicle engine from being powered (and / or electrically and / or mechanically locking the rotor with respect to the stator).

In some embodiments, an owner and / or authorized driver of a particular electric vehicle (or set of electric vehicles) may be issued with a personal identification number (PIN) corresponding to that of the particular electric vehicle (or set of electric vehicles) 820 allows the owner and / or authorized driver to enter the PIN to toggle the electric vehicle between on and off modes. A predefined relative proximity of a wireless electronic device with an authorized PIN for a corresponding electric vehicle may switch the electric vehicle to on mode in some embodiments. In some embodiments, removing the wireless electronic device with the authorized PIN from the predefined relative proximity may switch the electric vehicle to the off mode.

The function 820 can allow the predefined relative proximity to be adjusted. The function 820 For example, it may allow the authorized user to switch proximity between a relatively short distance (for example, five meters) and a relatively large distance (for example, 15 meters). Setting proximity to the short distance may be suitable for personal use. Establishing proximity by a long distance may be suitable for situations in which the electric vehicle may be suitable by another group, such as a renter or a friend. In some embodiments, the function 820 switch the electric vehicle to the off mode when a measured distance between the wireless electronic device and the electric vehicle indicates that the wireless electronic device is not being executed by a driver of the electric vehicle. The proximity of the wireless electronic device (or the distance therebetween) may be measured or estimated by any suitable device, mechanism, device, or system, such as a satellite navigation system (GPS) or one or more other suitable proximity sensors.

The application 800 can be a message function 822 include. The function 822 may receive a notification from the electric vehicle that the electric vehicle is on (or is on). The function 822 may receive a message from the electric vehicle when the power in the power supply reaches a predefined level, such as at or below 20%. The function 822 may display (or otherwise notify) one or more of these messages to the user.

The application 800 can be a navigation function 824 include. The function 824 may represent a route map taken by the electric vehicle. The map may include vehicle statistics, such as an average speed for one or more of the routes, a maximum speed for one or more of the routes, a highest cornering speed for one or more of the routes, and / or a maximum acceleration for one or more of the routes. The routes may be identified based on at least a portion of the GPS location of either the vehicle or the wireless electronic device, or a location via another suitable system. The vehicle statistics may be determined based on at least a portion of the engine governor information sent from the vehicle to the wireless electronic device.

The function 824 can allow the user to the card, one or more specific routes and / or data corresponding to to use together with one or more other groups on one or more social networks, such as FACEBOOK TWITTER ^® or ^®. The function 824 may represent a map of a user's current location and superimpose a circle (or other shape) on the map indicating how far the electric vehicle can travel in light of a current level of current within the power supply (eg, vehicle range). The map can represent locations with nearby charging stations. The charging stations may include public electric vehicle charging stations and / or locations of individual electric vehicle enthusiasts that have been previously identified to allow others to plug into electrical outlets at their respective homes or businesses.

The application 800 can be a training function 826 include. The function 826 can be set up to guide a driver through learning development regarding various functions of the electric vehicle. Learning development can include a number of instructional videos. Each of the instructional videos can be related to a different function of the electric vehicle. Each video can be guided through one or more guided exercises be followed. If the driver successfully completes the one or more guided exercises, then the function can 826 release a new function of the electric vehicle. The new function may be a function previously unavailable to the driver.

15 presents an exemplary screenshot on a home screen 900 the software application. As shown, the screen may be 900 a field 902 include. The field 902 can represent a percent of remaining battery power (88% in this example) and that percentage in a bar graph. The screen 900 can a field 904 which represents an estimated vehicle range (in this case, 5.3 miles) that the electric vehicle can drive based on the percentage of remaining battery power. The fields 902 and or 904 can be an example of the function 812 be.

The screen 900 can be a driving mode selector field 906 include. The field 906 can be an example of the function 802 be. The field 906 may allow the user to choose one of several driving modes, such as: B. a learning mode, speed mode or trick mode. The learning mode may be suitable for use by a beginner in learning how to operate the electric vehicle. The learning mode may correspond to a lower maximum speed limit, a lower maximum acceleration limit, and / or a relatively small (or no) rotational compensation. The speed (or conversion) mode may be suitable for drivers who want to drive fast on the electric vehicle from one location to another. The speed mode can z. B. a higher maximum speed limit, a maximum acceleration limit and / or a moderate rotation compensation correspond. The trick mode may be suitable for drivers who wish to perform various tricks on the electric vehicle. The trick mode can be z. B. a moderate maximum speed limit, a maximum acceleration limit and / or higher rotational compensation.

The user can enter the learning mode by tapping on a learning field 908 , the speed mode by tapping the speed field 910 and the trick mode by tapping the trick field 912 choose. Selecting one of the modes may correspond to turning off one or more of the other modes.

The selection of a driving mode may become an indication of a field 914 to lead. The field 914 may represent one or more actuation parameters of the selected drive mode. If the speed mode z. B. is selected, as in 15 represented, then the field can 914 a maximum speed field 916 , an acceleration field 918 , a cornering field 920 and a range of coverage 922 represent. The field 916 may represent a speed limit for the speed mode and / or allow the user to set the speed limit for the speed mode. The field 918 may represent a maximum acceleration limit for the speed mode and / or allow the user to set the maximum acceleration limit for the speed mode. The field 920 may indicate a ratio and / or enable the user to set a ratio at which modulation of the longitudinal angle and / or the yaw angle is included in the modulation of the rotational speed of the rotor about the transverse axis. The field 922 may represent how one or more actuation parameters (or settings) of the speed mode may affect a range that the electric vehicle can drive. If z. B. the operating parameters consume a larger amount of energy, then the field 922 show a shorter range as shown. Likewise, the field can 914 Represent actuation parameters and / or allow one or more similar actuation parameters to be set for the learn mode and trick mode.

The screen 900 can be a light mode field 924 include. The field 924 can be an example of the function 816 be. The field 924 may allow the user to adjust the headlamp / taillight assemblies between two or more light modes, such as As an OFF mode and an ON mode to switch. The OFF mode may correspond to the illuminators of the headlight / tail lamp assemblies that do not emit light. The ON mode may correspond to the illuminators of the headlight / taillight assemblies that emit light.

The screen 900 can be an indicator 926 include. The indicator 926 can specify how or by what a protocol device 710 with the vehicle 100 is connected (sh. 13 ). As in 15 displayed, the device can 710 with the vehicle 100 be connected via a Bluetooth protocol (eg in connection with it). However, in other embodiments, the wireless electronic device may connect the electric vehicle from one circuit to another via another protocol suitable for transmitting data, preferably wirelessly.

The screen 900 (and other screens of the application 800 ) may include one or more icons that allow a user to navigate between different functions of the application 800 to switch. The screens of the application 800 can z. For example, the symbols 928 . 930 . 932 . 934 include. The symbol 928 may be a driving mode / home screen icon that the application 800 to the screen 900 switch when it is tapped (or otherwise selected) by the user. The symbol 930 can be a navigation icon that represents an application 800 to one or more navigation screens when selected by the user. The selection of the symbol 930 can z. B. lead to a display of a menu that allows the user, either the screen 1000 or 1100 to select (sh. 16 and 17 ). The symbol 932 can be a configuration icon representing the functions 818 and or 820 (Sh. 14 ) on a screen 1200 (Sh. 18 ) when selected by the user. The symbol 934 can be a training symbol that the application 800 switches to one or more exercise screens when selected by the user. The one or more exercise screens may progress through one or more actuations, with examples of them in 19 and 20 are shown.

In 16 represents the screen 1000 an example of a navigation function 824 dar. 14 ). As in 16 shown, the screen can 1000 to present a card that is common with 1004 is designated. The map 1004 can be one or more routes that the vehicle 100 drives, represent, such. B. a first route 1008 (shown in dashed double-dotted lines), a second route 1012 (shown in dotted lines) and a third route 1016 (shown in dashed lines). For one or more of the routes may be the card 1004 show one or more statistics for the electric vehicle along the respective route. The map 1004 can z. For example, an average speed statistic (eg, 6 MPH) for the electric vehicle along the route 1008 , a location where the electric vehicle reaches a topmost (or maximum) cornering speed, a location where the electric vehicle reaches a maximum acceleration, and a location where the electric vehicle reaches a top speed. Values of the highest cornering speed, acceleration and speed can be found on the map 1004 (eg near the associated locations). The map 1004 can also get statistics for the routes 1012 . 1016 represent. In some embodiments, the card may 1004 at the same time statistics for all shown routes. In some embodiments, the card may 1004 Display statistics only for a subset of the routes selected by the user. In some embodiments, the card may 1004 enable selective presentation and / or sharing of specific routes (eg, by tapping a particular route to have access to a display control and / or common use control for the particular route).

In 17 represents the screen 1100 another example of the navigation function 824 dar. 14 ). As in 17 shown, the screen can 1100 to present a card that is common with 1104 is designated. The map 1104 can represent a current position of the electric vehicle. The function 824 can a circle 1108 (or any other shape, contour or boundary) on the map 1104 to specify how far the electric vehicle can travel based on a current power level of the electric vehicle's power supply (eg a range of the electric vehicle). The map 1104 may represent locations (and / or environments) of one or more charging stations. The map 1104 can z. B. two charging stations within the circle 1108 are arranged, and a charging station, outside the circle 1108 is arranged to represent. The representation of the current position of the electric vehicle, the locations of the charging stations and / or the circle 1108 may help the user to determine a direction of travel, and / or determine if a particular charging station is being visited to recharge the electric vehicle's power supply. The user can z. B. based on the map 1104 decide to go to one of the charging stations inside the circle 1108 are arranged to drive.

In some embodiments, the card may 1104 from 17 a map 1004 from 16 include. The map 1104 can z. B. include a display of routes taken by the electric vehicle and statistics for those routes.

18 is a screen scheme 1200 with the functions 818 . 820 , The screen 1200 (and / or other application screens) can take a picture 1204 which may rotate based on the inclination angle (eg, lateral, longitudinal, and / or yaw angles) of the electric vehicle. The rotation of the picture 1204 can z. B. based on sensor information (or alignment information) from the electric vehicle gyrosensor and accelerometer. The software application can, for. B. received a signal indicative of sensor information according to the electric vehicle, which is different from the orientation in 7 is shown, until the alignment, in 8th is shown, moved. In response to this signal, the software application may display a picture 1204 rotate from a first position (shown in solid lines) to a second position (shown in dashed double-dotted lines). The software application can also be a picture 1204 rotate to indicate movement about the longitudinal axis and / or yaw axis. As in 18 pictured, the picture may 1204 to be a picture of the electric vehicle. However, in other embodiments, the image may be an image of another object or a shape or image of a texture.

The rotation of the picture 1204 may allow the user to remotely view a movement of the electric vehicle and / or expediently illustrate an accuracy of the sensor information. The rotation of the picture 1204 can z. B. allow the user to provide information by the function 818 are intended to be verified and / or interpreted differently. As described above, the function 818 Display diagnostics, service, error and / or debug information for the user. The user can the electric vehicle z. B. manually tilt and visually verify that the circuit in the electric vehicle the tilt angle by visually comparing a tilt of the image 1204 calculated accurately with the actual electric vehicle.

The rotation of the picture 1204 can increase the safety of the electric vehicle. The rotation of the picture 1204 can z. B. indicate that an unauthorized group is moving the electric vehicle, giving the user access to the function 820 to switch the electric vehicle from the on mode to the off mode to prevent unauthorized application of the electric vehicle.

In some embodiments, the image may 1204 be a wallpaper of the software application. The picture 1204 can z. For example, "behind" one of both functions 818 . 820 being represented. In some embodiments, the image may 1204 appear on one or more of the screens of the software application when the software application receives a signal indicating that the electric vehicle has been turned on, which may increase the safety of the electric vehicle. In some embodiments, the image may 1204 disappear from one or more of the screens of the software application when the software application receives a signal indicating that the electric vehicle has been turned off.

First illustrative method for instructing a user

19 represents several steps of a procedure common with 1300 is designated by the software application, such. B. by the training function 826 (Sh. 14 ), can be performed. Although different steps of the procedure 1300 described below and in 19 Not all steps are necessarily performed, and in some cases, they may be executed in a different order than the illustrated order.

The procedure 1300 can take a step 1302 comprising a first set of instructions to the user. The first set of instructions may relate to a first product feature of the electric vehicle, such as a vehicle. B. a fundamental balance, relate. The first set of instructions may include text, audio, and / or video instructions provided to the user by the software application of the wireless electronic device. The provision of the first set of instructions may e.g. B. include presenting a tutorial video to the user to train the user as to how to perform a first process related to the basic balancing, such as: B. pivoting the board from a starting position (see. 7 ) with one end of the board on the ground to the horizontal orientation (see. 8th ) to activate the feedback loop.

The procedure 1300 can take a step 1304 to guide the user through a first exercise related to the first product feature. At the step 1304 can the software application z. B. (through text, audio and / or video) guide the user to perform the first sequence. At the step 1304 can the software application z. B. set up to issue voice instructions by a speaker in the wireless electronic device. The voice instructions may guide the user to position the board in the starting position, place its feet on the first and second foot plates, and / or move the board for horizontal alignment.

The procedure 1300 can take a step 1306 to determine if the first exercise was successfully completed (or completed). At the step 1306 For example, a signal may be sent from the electric vehicle to the wireless electronic device. The signal may include information from which the software application can determine if the first exercise has been successfully completed, such as the first exercise. B. sensor information and / or other information from the microcontroller to the electric vehicle. The software application can determine based on the signal if the first exercise was successful.

When at the step 1306 If it is determined that the first exercise was not successful (for example, the board was not moved to a horizontal orientation), then the procedure may be used 1300 to the step 1302 return and the first set of instructions and / or a set of instructions that are similar to the first sentence may be for the user be provided in the wireless electrical device by the software application.

If, however, at the step 1306 If it is determined that the first exercise was successful, then the procedure can be used 1300 to the step 1308 go over to unlock a second product feature of the electric vehicle. The second product feature may be a feature of the electric vehicle that was previously off. The second product feature may be substantially more difficult to operate than the first product feature, and / or may be a product feature that is more complex and / or based on a function of the first product feature. The second product feature can, for. B. may be a durable forward motion feature that includes maintaining a tilt angle of the board to propel the board forward, as in FIG 9 shown.

As in 19 shown, the procedure can 1300 one step 1310 to provide a second set of instructions to the user. The second set of instructions may refer to the second product feature. At the step 1310 can the software application z. For example, provide an instruction video on the wireless electronic device that shows the user how to hold the front foot plate down to propel the electric vehicle forward and how to allow the board to return to horizontal alignment to the electric vehicle to stop.

The procedure 1300 may be similar to the respective steps 1304 . 1306 one step 1312 to guide the user through a second exercise related to the second product function and a step 1314 to determine if the second exercise was successful. When at the step 1314 If it is determined that the second exercise was not successful, then the procedure can be used 1300 to the step 1310 to return. If, however, at the step 1314 If it is determined that the second exercise was successful, then the procedure can be used 1300 to the step 1316 go over to unlock a third product feature. The third product feature may be more complex than the first and second product features, and / or may require actuation knowledge of the first and / or second product features to be carried out safely.

Second illustrative method of instructing a user

20A and 20B are respective first and second parts of a flowchart and are collectively referred to as 20 designated.

20 represents several steps of a procedure common with 1400 referred to, which is executed by the software application, such. B. a training function 826 (Sh. 14 ). The procedure 1400 can z. B. an embodiment of the method 1300 from 19 be. Although different steps of the procedure 1400 described below and in 20 not all are necessarily performed, and in some cases, they may be executed in a different order than the illustrated order.

As shown, the process can 1400 one step 1402 for presenting an instruction video of a basic balance. At the step 1402 For example, the instruction video for basically balancing on the wireless electronic device may be presented by the software application to the driver (or user).

The procedure 1400 can take a step 1404 to guide the driver through an exercise to fundamentally balance. At the step 1404 can the software application z. B. lead the driver to perform the exercise to fundamentally balancing on the electric vehicle. In some embodiments, the software application may determine whether the basic balance exercise has been successfully performed.

The procedure 1400 can take a step 1406 for enabling a slow speed forward motion function (e.g., 2 MPH) and a stop function. In some embodiments, the software application may enable the low speed forward motion function after (or only after) determining that the basic balance exercise has been successfully completed (or completed).

The procedure 1400 can take a step 1408 for displaying a forward motion and stop instruction video, and a step 1410 for guiding the driver through a forward movement and stopping exercise. In some embodiments, the software application may determine if the forward motion and stop exercise has been successfully performed.

The procedure 1400 can take a step 1412 to unlock a toe-side turning function, such as. B. a modulation of the rotational speed of the rotor of the motor based on a pivotal movement of the board about the longitudinal axis in a direction opposite to that in 11 is shown. In some embodiments, the software application may use the toe unlock side spin function after (or only after) determining that the forward movement and stopping exercise has been successfully completed.

The procedure 1400 can take a step 1414 for displaying a toe rotation instruction video and a step 1416 to guide the driver through a toe-side turning exercise. In some embodiments, the software application may determine whether the toe-turn exercise has been successfully performed.

The procedure 1400 can take a step 1418 to unlock a higher speed function, such. B. forward movement at a speed of up to 8 MPH include. In some embodiments, the software application may enable the higher speed feature after (or only after) determining that the toe-turn exercise has been successfully performed.

The procedure 1400 can take a step 1420 for displaying a velocity modulation instruction video. The velocity modulation instruction video may e.g. For example, the driver may be presented with a speed modulation routine for increasing the angle of inclination to increase the speed of the electric vehicle and decreasing the angle of inclination to reduce the speed of the electric vehicle.

The procedure 1400 can take a step 1422 to guide the driver through a speed modulation exercise. The software application can z. B. at the step 1422 Guide the driver to perform one or more steps in the speed modulation process.

The procedure 1400 can take a step 1424 for enabling an inverse function such. As a result, a reverse movement as a result, to maintain the rear sole plate under the horizontal orientation, as in 10 shown. In some embodiments, the software application may enable the reverse motion function after (or only after) determining that the velocity modulation exercise has been successfully performed.

The procedure 1400 can take a step 1426 for displaying a reverse instruction video and a step 1428 to guide the driver through a reverse exercise. In some embodiments, the software application may determine if the reverse exercise has been successfully performed.

The procedure 1400 can be similar to the steps 1412 . 1414 . 1416 one step 1430 to unlock a heel-side rotation function, a step 1432 for displaying a heel rotation instruction video and a step 1434 for guiding the driver through a heel-side turning exercise, an example of them in FIG 11 is shown.

The procedure 1400 can take a step 1436 for enabling a maximum speed function such. B. a forward and / or backward movement at a speed of up to 12 MPH. In some embodiments, the software application may enable the high-speed function after (or only after) determining that the heel-side rotation exercise has been successfully performed.

The procedure 1400 can take a step 1438 for displaying a carving instruction video that may represent to the driver how to perform high speed rotations using a modulation of one or more of the longitudinal and yaw angles to modulate the speed of the rotor relative to the stator.

The procedure 1400 can take a step 1440 for guiding the driver through a carving exercise in which the driver is instructed to complete a plurality of rotations at relative maximum speeds by modulating the longitudinal and / or yawing angles.

The procedure 1400 can take a step 1442 for awarding a certificate of a training certificate (or virtual certificate) to the driver. The awarding of the certificate may be based on whether the software application determines that the carving exercise, and / or any of the other exercises, have been successfully completed. In some embodiments, the method 1400 awarding a certificate based on a successful completion of one or more of the previous exercises in one of the steps 1404 . 1410 . 1416 . 1422 . 1428 . 1434 include. The step 1418 can z. For example, enabling a maximum speed function and awarding a certificate may be based on a successful completion of the toe-to-toe exercise.

Clear communication systems

21 represents a system that is common with 1500 referred to as. The system 1500 can an electric vehicle 100 and an electric vehicle 1502 that is similar to the vehicle 100 can be, in conjunction with the wireless electronic contraption 710 include. The vehicle 1502 can z. B. a transmitter and a receiver, similar to those of the vehicle 100 (Sh. 13 ) comprising a wireless data communication link between the device 710 and the vehicle 1502 can build. The system 1500 may be desirable in a situation where a user has a wireless connection to both vehicles 100 . 1502 wishes to get a configuration from one of the vehicles 100 . 1502 to monitor and / or change. The one user can z. A parent who owns the vehicle 100 can drive and be a child of the parent who owns the vehicle 1502 can drive. The wireless data communication link between the device 710 and the vehicles 100 . 1502 is formed, the parent can, while the child is driving, enable the driving mode of the vehicle 1502 to adapt to the child's abilities and to the driving mode of the vehicle 100 to change the power consumption of the vehicle 100 to the vehicle 1502 adapt.

The system 1500 can the device 710 allow the respective configurations of the vehicles 100 . 1502 either independently or substantially simultaneously, to monitor and / or modify. A technician can z. B. the device 710 press to see the respective firmware of the vehicles 100 . 1502 essentially at the same time as updating, or allowing the technician to use the vehicles 100 . 1502 update sequentially.

In some embodiments, the system may 1500 allow the technician or other user to control the electrical components of the vehicle 1502 reconfigure to a configuration of the electrical components of the vehicle 100 adapt. A driver of the vehicle 1502 can z. B. with a driver of the vehicle 100 to be friends. The vehicle 100 may have a configuration (eg, a special reinforcement, and / or other settings) that are the driver of the vehicle 1502 to apply to the vehicle 1502 wishes, whereby one of the drivers the device 710 Can use the configuration of the vehicle 100 (eg via the software application) and consequently the vehicle 1502 reconfigure. In some embodiments, the software application may include a function that the vehicle 1502 automatically reconfigured to a configuration of the vehicle 100 adapt.

22 represents a system that is common with 1600 referred to as. The system 1600 can a vehicle 100 in connection with the device 710 and a wireless electronic device 1610 include. A first wireless data communication connection may be between the device 710 and the vehicle 100 and a second wireless data communication connection may be between the device 1610 and the vehicle 100 be formed. The device 1610 may be similar to the device 710 be. The device 1610 can z. B. a software application that is similar to the application 800 is (sh. 14 ).

The system 1600 can be used to train a driver of the vehicle 100 to be useful. A learner can, for. B. the device 710 hold and on the vehicle 100 be positioned, and a coach can use the device 1610 hold and away from the vehicle 100 be positioned. The learner can use the software application that works on the device 710 runs to a configuration of the vehicle 100 to monitor and / or modify, and / or exercise information about the function 826 (Sh. 14 ) to recieve. The trainer can use the software application on the device 1610 runs, use a configuration of the vehicle 100 also to monitor and / or change, and / or training information to the device 710 about the vehicle 100 send. In some embodiments, the devices may 710 . 1610 be in direct communication with each other via one or more wireless data communication links, and the learner and the trainer may configure the vehicle 100 monitor and / or change by a common data communication link established between one of the devices and the electric vehicle, and / or share the training information.

Illustrative data processing system

23 represents a data processing system 2300 , also referred to as computer, in conjunction with aspects of the present disclosure. In this example, the data processing system is 2300 an illustrative data processing system for performing one or more of the operations and / or functions included in 1 to 22 , and 24 to 29 and / or described in relation thereto. In particular, in some instances, devices that are embodiments of data processing systems (eg, onboard computers, chips, and electronic systems) may be programmed or otherwise configured to perform functions such as engine control, hysteresis algorithms, driver presence information signal processing, power management, microcontroller operations and / or a sensor control.

The data processing system 2300 can be a communication framework 2302 include. The communication framework 2302 sees communications between a processor unit 2304 one Storage 2306 , a permanent storage 2308 , a connection unit 2310 , an input / output (I / O) unit 2312 and an ad 2314 in front. The memory 2306 , Permanent storage 2308 , Communication unit 2310 , Input / output (I / O) unit 2312 and display 2314 are examples of resources provided by the processor unit 2304 via the communication framework 2302 are accessible.

The processor unit 2304 is used to recode instructions for the software stored in memory 2306 can be loaded. The process unit 2304 may include a number of processors, a multicore processor, or some other type of processor, depending on the particular implementation. Furthermore, the processor unit 2304 using a number of heterogeneous process systems in which a main processor with secondary processors is present on a single chip. As a further illustrative example, the processor unit 2304 a symmetric multi-processor system containing multiple processors of the same type.

The memory 2306 and the permanent memory 2308 are examples of memory devices 2316 , A storage device is a hardware part that stores information, such as information. For example, it may store data, program codes in functional form, and other suitable information without limitation either on a temporary or permanent basis.

The storage devices 2316 may also be referred to as computer readable storage devices in these examples. The memory 2306 can in these examples z. A memory or other suitable volatile or non-volatile memory device. The permanent memory 2308 may take various forms depending on the particular embodiment.

The permanent memory 2308 can z. B. contain one or more components or devices. The permanent memory 2308 can z. A hard disk, a flash memory, a rewritable optical disk, a rewritable magnetic tape, or any combination of the above. The medium that passes through the permanent memory 2308 can also be removable. A removable hard disk can be z. B. for the permanent storage 2308 be used.

The communication unit 2310 provides connections to other data processing systems or devices in these examples. In these examples, the communication unit is 2310 a network card. The communication unit 2310 can provide connections through the use of one or both physical and wireless communication links.

The input / output (I / O) unit 2312 enables the input and output of data with other devices connected to the data processing system 2300 can be connected. The input / output (I / O) unit 2312 may provide a connection for user input through a keyboard, a mouse, and / or any other suitable input device. Furthermore, the input / output (I / O) unit can 2312 send an output to a printer. The ad 2314 provides a mechanism to present information to a user.

The instructions for the operating system, the applications and / or programs may be in the storage devices 2316 can be arranged in connection with the processor unit 2304 via the communication framework 2302 are. In these illustrative examples, the instructions are in a functional form on the non-volatile memory 2308 , These instructions can be stored in memory 2306 for execution by the processor unit 2304 getting charged. The operations of the various embodiments may be performed by the processor unit 2304 be executed using computer-implemented instructions stored in a memory such. B. the memory 2306 , can be arranged.

These instructions are referred to as program instructions, program code, computer usable program code, or computer readable program code that is passed through a processor into the processor unit 2304 can be read in and executed. The program code in various embodiments may be stored on different physical or computer-readable storage media, such as a computer. B. the memory 2306 or permanent memory 2308 to be included.

The program code 2318 is in functional form on the computer readable medium 2320 arranged, which is selectively removable, and may be on the data processing system 2300 for execution by the processor unit 2304 be loaded or transferred to. The program code 2318 and the computer readable medium 2320 make up the computer program product 2322 in these examples. In one example, the computer readable medium 2320 a computer-readable storage medium 2324 or a computer readable signal medium 2326 be.

The computer-readable storage medium 2324 can z. B. include an optical or magnetic disk, in a drive or other device that is part of the permanent memory 2308 are for transfer to a storage device such. For example, a hard disk that is part of the permanent memory 2308 is, used or arranged. The computer-readable storage medium 2324 can also take the form of a permanent storage such. For example, a hard disk, a USB flash drive (thumb drive), or a flash memory, accept the data processing system 2300 connected is. In some cases, the computer readable storage medium 2324 not from the data processing system 2300 be removable.

In these examples, the computer-readable storage medium is 2324 a physical or physical storage device used to program code 2318 rather than storing in a medium containing the program code 2318 disseminates or transmits. The computer-readable storage medium 2324 is also referred to as a computer readable tangible storage device or computer readable physical storage device. In other words, it is the computer-readable storage medium 2324 a medium that can be touched by a person.

Alternatively, the program code 2318 to the data processing system 2300 using a computer readable signal medium 2326 be transmitted. The computer-readable signal medium 2326 can z. B. a program code 2318 be containing a common data signal. The computer-readable signal medium 2326 can z. Example, an electromagnetic signal, optical signal and / or any other suitable signal type. These signals can be connected via communication links, such. For example, a wireless communication link, a fiber optic cable, coaxial cable, a lead wire, and / or any other suitable communication connection type are transmitted. In other words, the communication link and / or the connection may be physical or wireless in the illustrative examples.

In some illustrative embodiments, the program code may be 2318 over a network to the permanent memory 2308 from another device or data processing system by the computer readable signal medium 2326 for use within the data processing system 2300 be downloaded. The program code, which is stored in a computer-readable storage medium in a server data processing system, may e.g. B. over a network from the server to the data processing system 2300 be downloaded. The data processing system that contains the program code 2318 provides may be a server computer, client machine or any other device containing the program code 2318 save and transfer.

The different components used for the data processing system 2300 are not intended for architectural limitations in the manner in which different embodiments may be employed. The various illustrative embodiments may be implemented in a data processing system that includes components in addition to, or in lieu of, those for the data processing system 2300 are shown. Others in 23 Components shown may be varied from the illustrative examples shown. The various embodiments may be implemented using a hardware device or system that can exploit program code. As an example, the data processing system 2300 Organic components that are integrated with inorganic components include and / or may include all organic components except those of a human being. A storage device may e.g. B. have an organic semiconductor.

In another illustrative example, the processor unit 2304 take the form of a hardware unit having circuits made or configured for a particular use. This type of hardware can perform operations without requiring program code to be loaded into memory from a memory device to be configured to perform the operations.

If z. B. the processor unit 2304 takes the form of a hardware unit, the processor unit 2304 a circuit system, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device, or any other suitable type of hardware configured to perform a number of operations. The device is configured with a programmable logic device to perform the number of operations. The device may later be reconfigured or permanently configured to perform the number of operations. Examples of programmable logic devices include z. A programmable logic array, programmable array logic, field programmable logic array, field programmable gate array and other suitable hardware devices. In this type of execution, the program code 2318 be omitted because the processes are used for the different embodiments in a hardware unit.

In yet another illustrative example, the processor unit 2304 using a combination of processors found in computers and hardware units. The processor unit 2304 can be a number of hardware units and a Number of processors that are set up to the program code 2318 to recycle. With this illustrated example, some of the processes may be employed in the number of hardware units, while the other processes may be employed in the number of processors.

In another example, a bus system may be used to control the communication frame 2302 and can one or more buses, such. As a system bus or an input / output bus have. Of course, the bus system may be implemented using any suitable type of architecture that provides for data transfer between different components or devices located on the bus system.

The communication unit 2310 In addition, it may include a number of devices that send data, receive data, or both send and receive data. The communication unit 2310 can z. A modem or network adapter, two network adapters, or any combination thereof. Furthermore, a memory z. B. the memory 2306 or a cache, e.g. For example, the one found in an interface and memory controller hub that is in the communication frame 2302 can be present.

The flowcharts and block diagrams described herein illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible applications of the systems, methods, and computer program products according to various illustrative embodiments. In this regard, each block in the flowcharts or block diagrams may be a module, segment or code region having one or more executable instructions for performing the specific logical functions or functions. It should be noted that in some alternative applications, the functions noted in a block may occur out of the order noted in the figures. The functions of two blocks, which are shown in succession, z. For example, the functions of the blocks may sometimes be executed in reverse order depending on the functionality contained.

Clear driver detection devices, systems and procedures

As in 24 to 28 This section describes illustrative driver detection systems and methods. These driver detection systems and methods relate to various examples of the driver detection apparatus described above (eg, apparatus 262 ).

24 and 25 illustrate an illustrative pressure-sensitive transducer suitable for use in a driver detection system. 26 Fig. 10 is a plan view of a similar pressure-sensitive transducer. 27 Figure 11 is a plan view of an electric vehicle having such multiple transducers in respective floor space areas. 28 is a schematic sectional view of the system of 27 ,

In general, a driver sensing device, system, or sensor for a personal electric vehicle having no or more ground contact elements (eg, wheels) may include a flexible, resilient, or rigid circuit having one or more sensing elements integrated into a single substrate. The driver detection sensor includes a pressure sensitive transducer configured to convert a detected force or pressure into an electrical signal. A pressure sensitive transducer may include one or more fully conductive layers and / or one or more partially conductive layers. In some examples, a partially conductive layer may be proportionately conductive such that the conductivity of the layer is proportionate to the applied pressure or force. In some examples, in which, for example, one or more of the layers are partially conductive, may include the sensor element (elements) a force sensitive resistor (can), such as the Force Sensing Resistor ^® manufactured by Sensotronics LLC. A layer in this context may have a width and length that is substantially greater than its thickness or depth. Consequently, a layer can be described as a width.

A force sensitive resistor (FSR) comprises a material or layer that predictably changes electrical resistance in response to a force applied to the layer. In particular, the electrical resistance of a force sensitive resistor decreases when a force is applied, e.g. proportional. Force sensitive resistors may include one or more conductive polymers. In some examples, the force sensitive resistor material may take the form of a polymer plate, polymer layer or printable ink. Printable, heat-sensitive resistive inks may be screen printed or otherwise applied to a film substrate, such as a film substrate. a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film. In all of the examples, the term FSR can be used to describe the specific layer of a transducer, e.g. comprising the conductive polymer. In some examples, the term FSR may be used to refer to a transducer that includes one or more layers of FSR material.

The driver detection sensor, which may be constructed using printed circuit manufacturing techniques, may include a transducer having one or more conductive layers. For example, a pair of wholly and / or partially conductive layers may be spaced from each other and facing each other. At least one of the two layers may be elastic or flexible, so that the layer is displaced when a force is applied, whereby the other layer is contacted and completes an electrical circuit. As mentioned above, one of the layers may comprise a force-sensitive resistor, so that the electrical conductivity of this layer is variable in dependence on the applied force (the sheet resistance is eg proportional to the applied force). In examples comprising a force sensitive resistor, the transducer as a whole will be proportionate in response to an applied pressure. In examples that include only fully conductive layers, the transducer response will be substantially binary (ie, ON / OFF).

A layer of the driver detection sensor may have a relatively small displacement, so that the displacement is not detectable by the driver. Deflection or displacement of a sensor can e.g. in a range of about 0.005 to 0.020 inches. In particular, when a driver applies an activation force or pressure to a sensor, a separation distance between the layers may be reduced by about 0.005 to 0.020 inches. This amount is for illustrative purposes only, and other separation and / or displacement distances may be appropriate. Deactivation of the driver detection sensor element (e.g., by removing an activation pressure or activating force) may cause the connected conductive layers to move relative to one another to restore the separation distance. As described above, e.g. one or both layers may comprise an elastic material.

In some examples, an FSR-type transducer is used to provide a more robust driver detection system. Various factors may e.g. cause an output amount of pressure, which is placed by the driver detection sensor, such as. the application of additional layers of material above and / or below the sensor. An advantage of an FSR in this situation will be its proportionate response, as opposed to a pure binary sensor. Although the sensor can be activated to some degree by the output pressure, the FSR will be only partially conductive. Thus, a threshold may be set above which the sensor will indicate a driver's presence and below which the sensor will indicate that no driver is present. This threshold can be set above the initial level to avoid false positive readings.

In some examples, the driver detection sensor may be made weather-resistant by including the driver detection sensor or a transducer element in a watertight housing, eg, using a watertight bond. An air or vapor permeable, water-impermeable vent, such as a Gore vent, may be included to allow the driver detection sensor to adjust for changes in atmospheric pressure while maintaining a watertight seal. A suitable example of this is a vent TEMISH Venting System ^®, S-NTF series manufactured by Nitto Denko Corporation.

In some examples, multiple detection zones (e.g., each defined by a respective detection transducer) may be included in a single driver detection sensor. The use of multiple zones may allow for increased accuracy, better responsiveness to different pressure sources, and / or may allow for different states to begin operation, continue operation, and / or stop operation of the vehicle.

In one example, a vehicle, such as a vehicle, may be used. a self-stabilizing skateboard comprising first and second detection zones with connected active areas under the heel and toe of the rider. The first and second detection zones may be e.g. separated from each other by a gap or other region extending substantially parallel to a direction of travel of the skateboard and / or substantially perpendicular to a transverse axis of a centrally located wheel of the skateboard. In other words, a pressure-sensitive transducer may be adjacent to and laterally spaced from another pressure-sensitive transducer so that the pressure-sensitive transducers are configured to be located below a front portion and a rear portion of the driver's foot, respectively. In some embodiments, the driver detection sensor may be fabricated with highly resistant polycarbonate / PET materials and sealed with a wide watertight rim.

In an exemplary process, active balancing may be initialized or triggered in response to both depressed zones. Pressing only one (or at least one) zone may allow continued driving (eg continued active balancing). This operating configuration may allow relatively aggressive heel and toe turns in which the rider may lift one heel or toe while the other part of the foot remains in contact with the skateboard wing (eg, by depressing an associated capture zone).

In some examples, when the driver slows down the skateboard (or other type of vehicle including the driver detection sensor) below a safe speed specified by software or firmware (such as that included in a corresponding engine governor), the system may be set up to stop an active balancing of the vehicle when the user lifts a heel or a toe off the board or otherwise removed. Thus, a distance pressure from an associated detection zone may allow the vehicle to come to a standstill. The vehicle speed may be measured or detected by a suitable device or method. A speed detection device may e.g. be connected to the speed of a vehicle wheel.

In some examples, the driver detection sensor may be fabricated using circuit printing techniques typical in the membrane keyboard industry and / or the pressure sensitive resistance (FSR) industry. In some embodiments, wiring layers may be separated by a spacer layer that may prevent the driver detection sensor from being triggered when not under load.

In some embodiments, the driver detection sensor may be disposed on a rigid portion of a footpad of the vehicle and sandwiched between a non-slip (eg, anti-slip tape) layer disposed over the driver detection sensor and a rigid portion of the footpad that underlies Driver detection sensor is arranged to be interposed. This configuration can improve sensor reliability. In such a configuration, the driver detection sensor may e.g. B. have no moving parts, or the parts can not move significantly to each other. Due to the printed nature of some sensors (and / or other factors), additional detection zones can be added without significantly increased costs.

In relation to 24 and 25 is a vivid driver detection system 2400 in exploded views and summarized views. The system 2400 shows an example of a driver detection device 262 and is for use in the system described above 5 suitable. The system 2400 includes a pressure sensitive transducer 2402 that between a non-slip layer 2404 and a floor space area 2404 an electric skateboard, such. B. the vehicle described above 100 , arranged (ie interposed) is.

The pressure sensitive transducer 2402 , which is interchangeable with a force sensing or force sensitive transducer, may include any suitable structure and / or apparatus configured to convert a detected mechanical force into an electrical signal. In the in 24 As shown, the pressure sensitive transducer has an upper force sensitive resistance (FSR) layer 2408 and a lower conductive layer 2410 by passing through a gap or spacer layer 2412 is disconnected. In this example, the spacer layer comprises two regions, a first spacer region 2412A and a second distance range 2412B ,

The FSR layer 2408 may include any suitable layer with an electrical resistance that predictably changes in response to an applied force. The FSR layer 2408 can z. B. comprise a conductive polymer ink which is applied to a PET film substrate. In some examples, the substrate may be a conductive polymer rather than the printed ink. The FSR layer 2408 may be referred to as partially conductive and / or variably conductive.

The conductive layer 2410 may comprise any suitable conductive material, such. B. a partial electrical circuit. The conductive layer 2410 can z. Example, a pattern of silver or copper, which are printed or otherwise applied to a film substrate. In some examples, the pattern may include interlocking or interlocking regions (eg, fingers).

In operation, the FSR layer can 2408 to the conductive layer 2410 by an applied mechanical force (eg pressure), such. B. by the foot of a driver to be moved. Contact between the two layers results in completion of an electrical circuit that allows a signal to be generated to indicate that a driver is present. Because the FSR layer has a variable resistance, additional information can be communicated or measured, e.g. On the basis of the amount of current flowing through the circuit. In some cases, as described above, a certain initial activation level may be achieved by pressing the FSR and conductive layers between the non-slip layer 2404 and the floor space area 2404 be effected. As in 24 shown, the conductive 2410 include an area passing through an opening 2414 in the floor space area 2406 goes through to a suitable electrical connector 2416 connect to. The connector 2416 may include any suitable electrical connector configured to connect the transducer 2402 in communication with a controller, such. B. a motor controller 254 and / or microcontroller 269 (please refer 5 ) to arrange.

A spacer 2412 may comprise any suitable nonconductive material, for example dielectric material, configured to be the FSR layer 2408 and conductive layer 2410 without keeping an applied force separate. In some examples, the spacer may be 2412 one or more layer areas (eg area 2412A and 2412B ) having a thickness greater than that of a conductive layer 2410 , and which are disposed on opposite lateral sides of the conductive layer, whereby the FSR layer 2408 is held above the conductive layer. In some examples, the spacer may be 2412 include one or more areas that are set up to be between the FSR layer 2408 and the conductive layer 2410 to be interposed such that the spacing areas are located only on a perimeter of the layers, leaving free cooperation to the central or central areas of each layer.

The non-slip layer 2404 can be above the transducer 2402 and may include any suitable material configured to provide a durable, traction enhancing surface for a driver's foot.

The non-slip layer 2404 For example, it may comprise a non-slip material, an anti-slip tape, a textured layer and / or the like, or any combination thereof. The non-slip layer 2404 can have a similar dimension to the transducer 2402 or greater so that the transducer is also protected to some extent by the non-slip layer. The non-slip layer 2404 can be an example of the areas 124 . 128 be described above.

The FSR layer 2408 has been described as being above the conductive layer 2410 is arranged. However, in some examples, this arrangement may be reversed so that the FSR layer is the bottom layer. Some examples may include more or less any type of layer. For example, a transducer / sensor may include only a single FSR layer. Any suitable combination of layers can be used.

26 provides a vivid pressure or force sensitive sensor area 2420 for use in a driver detection system, such as the system 2400 , suitable is. Similar to the transducer 2402 can the sensor area 2420 in this system, for example, by interposing the sensor area between an anti-slip tape layer and a rigid area of the board or the footprint of the vehicle. As described below, the sensor area 2420 comprise a plurality of juxtaposed pressure or force sensitive transducers, each of which defines a different active area or a separate detection zone.

As in 26 illustrated, includes the sensor area 2420 a first pressure-sensitive transducer 2422 , the first active area 2424 (or a separate zone) defined; a second pressure-sensitive transducer 2426 that has a second active area 2428 (or a separate zone) defined; a waterproof enclosure or housing 2430 that the transducers 2422 and 2424 includes; a vent 2432 that is set up to provide a barometric balance of interior space within the enclosure 2430 to allow with an external environment; and electrical contacts 2434 . 2436 . 2438 which are in electrical communication with the transducers.

Each of the transducers 2422 and 2426 may comprise at least partially conductive first and second layers separated by a spacer layer. In some examples, one or both transducers includes a resilient first conductive layer spaced from and facing a second conductive layer such that a force applied to the first conductive layer causes the first conductive layer to contact the second conductive layer is. In some examples, one or both transducers include an FSR layer comparable to that described above 24 to 25 ,

The contacts 2434 and 2436 can each be electrical with the transducers 2422 and 2426 get connected. The contact 2438 can be a ground connection. When a force or a pressure on the first zone 2424 is applied (for example by a driver's foot), wherein a separation distance between the first and second layers of the transducer 2422 is reduced or resolved, driver available information (for example, a signal that a driver is present) may be attached to the contact 2434 be issued. Similarly, a force or a pressure acting on the second zone 2428 be applied, a similar issue to contact 2436 cause. These signals may communicate with the engine controller using the driver present information to determine an appropriate condition for the engine assembly of the vehicle (eg, stopping or turning the wheel into forward or reverse) Reverse direction). In some examples, the contact may be 2434 a drive line (for example, a toe drive line) connected to the first transducer 2422 connected, the contact 2436 a drive line (eg, a heel drive line) connected to the second transducer 2426 connected is; and the contact 2438 be a detection line.

In an example application of a sensor area 2420 For example, the sensor area in a platform of a self-stabilizing vehicle (for example, vehicle 100 ) or be bound so that the first zone 2424 with a first area of a user's foot (for example, a toe area) and a second area 2428 is registered with a second area of the user's foot (for example, a heel area). A simultaneous activation of the zones 2424 and 2428 For example, the vehicle may be actively balanced by, for example, receiving driver present information from respective contacts 2434 and 2436 initialize by a motor controller. Once the vehicle is in an active balancing mode or status, the user may incline the footprint (eg, in a direction substantially perpendicular to the heel-toe direction) to propel the vehicle along a direction of travel.

After the vehicle reaches a predetermined or selected limit speed (for example, 3 MPH), the engine controller (or other controller) may be configured to continue actively balancing the vehicle, for example, by driving the engine, even if a pressure of one or more several of the zones 2424 and 2428 Will get removed. This can occur, for example, when performing heel and / or toe side turns. However, if the vehicle is operating below the predetermined or selected limit speed, the removal of pressure from either or both zones may be established to stop and / or slow down active balance of the vehicle. Removing pressure from the zone 2428 (connected to the driver's heel, for example) may, for example, be arranged to send a signal that a driver is not present to the engine governor via the contact 2436 to send. If the vehicle is traveling below the limit speed, the driver present information indicating an absence of the driver may cause the engine controller to shut off the engine and / or send a drive signal to the engine sufficient to restrain the vehicle bring. Likewise, removing the pressure from the zone 2424 be set up to bring the vehicle to rest when it is driving below the predetermined speed, even if the zone 2428 is activated (or vice versa).

A controller or control circuit for the engine may include hysteresis to make the modes of the vehicle more predictable or intuitive. A control circuit, comparable to or included in a Schmitt trigger, may be used to energize the vehicle for continued operation at higher speeds and non-operation at lower speeds. A voltage threshold and / or a timeout may be adjustable for this purpose. See below for an additional description of an illustrative operating procedure.

27 and 28 set a driver detection system 2500 with aspects associated with the driver detection system 2400 are comparable, and a sensor area 2420 and for an application in an electric vehicle, such. B. the vehicle 100 , are suitable. The system 2500 shows an example of a driver detection device 262 and is for use in the system described above 5 suitable. The system 2500 can a vehicle, such as. B. a self-stabilizing skateboard 2502 with a wheel arrangement 2504 that with a footprint 2506 is connected. This wheel assembly and footprint are substantially similar to those described above with respect to the vehicle 100 , Wheel arrangement 112 and stand space 104 comparable.

As in 27 and 28 shown, a first driver detection unit 2508 (also referred to as driver detection device, detection area or sensor area) in a first footpad 2510 the stand area 2506 bound to be coupled, connected, embedded or arranged. The driver detection unit 2508 can with the sensor area 2420 from 26 be comparable. The unit 2508 can z. B. first and second detection transducers 2512 and 2514 include that in a waterproof case 2516 are included, which is a vent 2518 (comparable to the venting 2432 ), which is arranged to allow a barometric balance between an interior and an external environment.

As in 28 represented, the unit can 2508 between a non-slip layer 2520 , such as As an anti-slip tape, and a board area 2522 a stand space 2506 be interposed. The board area 2522 is a substantially rigid area of the footprint 2506 , The board area 2522 can z. As a plywood, glass fiber and / or other substantially rigid material. In some examples, this can casing 2516 in a waterproof manner with the non-slip layer 2520 and / or the board area 2522 get connected.

The transducer 2512 may be a first and a second conductive layer 2524 . 2526 comprising, by a spacer layer 2528 are separated. Likewise, the transducer can 254 a third and a fourth conductive layer 2530 . 2532 comprising, by a spacer layer 2534 are separated. As described above, these conductive layers may include one or more FSR layers. Each transducer may be arranged to provide a variable output signal (eg, force proportional), to provide a binary ON / OFF signal, or to be selectable between these two types.

Im in 28 example shown is the vent 2518 in an interface area between the housing 2516 and a board area 2522 arranged. In some examples, however, the vent may be in other suitable positions, adjacent or peripheral to the housing 2516 to be positioned. In some embodiments, a hole or opening 2535 in the board area 2522 directly under the vent 2518 (or in any other suitable location), whereby the vent 2518 is arranged in fluid communication with the external environment. This arrangement can allow greater air flow into and out of the interior of the driver detection unit 2508 allow, in the indoor volume converter 2512 and 2514 are arranged.

As in 28 illustrated, a driver's foot can the driver detection unit 2508 with a force that is substantially variably balanced between two force vectors. In particular, a toe force vector describes 2536 the normal force acting on the footpad 2510 (and thus to the unit 2508 ) is applied through a front or toe area of the driver's foot. Likewise, a heel force vector describes 2538 the normal force acting on the footpad 2510 through a rear or heel area of the driver's foot. In some examples, the board or floor space area of the vehicle may have a shape other than flat. A floor space area and / or Fußpad can z. B. concave, convex or otherwise not planar. Although a planar footprint is described with associated normal forces, similar functionality refers to non-planar arrays.

During the use of the vehicle, the driver's foot, which in 28 With 2540 is called the unit 2508 with a force applied through both the heel and toe. In other words, the force can be through force vectors 2536 and 2538 be applied simultaneously. Consequently, both transducers can 2512 and 2514 are activated, causing them to communicate with respective driver present information signals with an engine controller associated with the wheel assembly 2504 connected is. A reception of these signals by the motor controller can be set up to actively balance the skateboard 2502 to initiate.

Once the skateboard 2502 at or above a selected limit speed, the engine controller may continue transmitting drive signals to the engine (eg, for continued active balancing) even if the engine controller sends a no-driver signal from one of the pressure sensitive transducers (ie, transducers 2512 or 2514 ) received. The transducer 2512 and or 2514 may be deactivated or the transmission of a signal due to the pressure removed by the driver from the respective area of the footpad (eg by raising a toe or heel area of the foot) set. However, if the skateboard 2502 below the selected limit speed, the engine governor may be set up to bring the vehicle to rest (eg, by shutting down the engine) if one or more of the sensor transducers are deactivated (eg, not depressed).

In terms of 27 may be a second driver detection unit 2542 which, in essence, with the first unit 2508 is identical, in a second footpad 2544 a stand space 2506 integrated, coupled, connected, embedded or arranged. The unit 2542 can z. B. first and second detection transducers 2546 and 2548 include that in a waterproof case 2550 are included, which is a vent 2552 which is arranged to allow a barometric balance between an interior and an external environment. In addition, the unit 2542 between a non-slip layer 2554 , such as As an anti-slip tape, and a relatively stiff board area 2556 the stand area 2506 be interposed. All of these components are essentially with the corresponding components of the first unit 2508 comparable. In some examples, the second unit is 2542 unavailable.

In some embodiments, deactivation of a selected number (eg, one) of the pressure sensitive transducers or a predetermined configuration of selected transducers may be arranged to bring the vehicle to rest when traveling below the limit speed. In some embodiments, active balancing may be initialized when all transducers 2512 . 2514 . 2546 . 2548 (or another predetermined number or associated configuration) are activated. In some embodiments, activation and / or deactivation of the transducers may be arranged to provide the drive signals to the motor of the wheel assembly 2504 to modulate over the engine controller when the skateboard 2502 moves at or above the limit speed.

Additional illustrative operating procedure

This section describes an illustrative procedure for operating a vehicle, such as a vehicle. B. the vehicle 100 , with a driver detection system, such. B. the system 2400 ; please refer 29 , The aspects of the driver detection devices and systems described above may be used in the method steps described below. Where appropriate, reference may be made to previously described components and systems that may be used in performing each step. These references are for illustration and it is not intended to limit the possible ways of carrying out a particular method step.

29 FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating steps performed in an illustrative method and can not recite the entire process or all steps of the process. 29 represents several process steps, which generally with 3000 which are implemented in conjunction with vehicles having driver detection systems in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. Although different process steps 3000 described below and in 29 not all steps necessarily have to be performed, and in some cases, they may be executed in a different order than shown in the figure. In addition, the process steps 3000 with one or more process steps above regarding the systems 2400 and / or procedures 600 are described combined.

At the step 3002 For example, the control system of an electric vehicle, which may include a processor and / or controller, detects the presence of a driver on the electric vehicle. For simplicity, the electric vehicle is referred to as a board. Any suitable vehicle, such as. B. the vehicle described above 100 , can be used. Detection of the driver may be performed in any suitable manner. The driver can z. B. using one or more pressure-sensitive transducers such. B. a transducer 2402 , are recorded. As explained above, such a pressure-sensitive transducer may include a force-sensitive resistor FSR, and therefore may have a proportional response to an applied force or pressure, such as pressure. B. by the driver's foot have. As for re 27 to 28 also, the transducer may comprise two detection zones, one associated with a front or toe region of the foot, and another associated with a rear or heel region of the foot. In this example, detection of the driver does not change the state of an active balancing system on the vehicle.

At the step 3004 the control system detects that the board is substantially leveled. In other words, a tilt angle of the board has reached a state or region defined by the system as "horizontal" or "no longer at rest." A driver can z. B. arrange both feet on the board and cause the Fußstandfläche is substantially parallel to the ground. A detection of a board angle may be performed by any suitable method using any suitable sensor and / or detector as described above 5 and 6 described.

When the control system step 3006 is satisfied that the driver is present and the board is in a leveling position, an active balancing can be switched on. An active balancing and driving the vehicle with respect to the process 600 is described above.

At the steps 3008 and 3010 The system can detect a change of driver present and react accordingly. At the step 3008 the system can detect that the entire foot of the driver has been removed from the board. The pressure sensors in both the toe zone and the heel zone of a footpad may e.g. B. no longer be activated. In this case, the system may assume that the driver is no longer on the vehicle and may step the vehicle engine 3012 stop, either immediately or after a selected delay. At the step 3010 On the other hand, the system may detect that only a portion of the driver's foot has been removed from the board. Only the toe capture zone or only the heel capture zone may e.g. B. cause a trip to be triggered. This can be z. B. occur during a turn when a driver lifts his or her toes (or heel) to maintain a balance. In response to this partial failure of driver detection, the step includes 3014 checking the vehicle speed. If the vehicle speed is above a selected threshold, the board will continue to operate in active mode. If the vehicle speed is below the threshold (eg 3 miles / Hour), the system can the vehicle operation at the step 3012 to stop.

Although a single sensor area, i. H. under a single foot having multiple sub-zones, individual examples may also utilize a second sensor area under the driver's other foot. Any suitable combination of sensor areas and / or zones may be used. In addition, any suitable type of sensor or transducer may be used, such as: B. an FSR transducer type and / or a fully conductive transducer.

Selected examples and embodiments

• A. Ein Elektrofahrzeug umfasst ein Brett mit ersten und zweiten Standflächenbereichen, wobei jeder eingerichtet ist, um einen linken oder rechten Fuß eines Fahrers aufzunehmen; eine Radanordnung, die zwischen den ersten und zweiten Standflächenbereichen angeordnet ist und ein Bodenkontaktelement umfasst; eine Motoranordnung, die am Brett befestigt ist, und eingerichtet ist, um das Bodenkontaktelement um eine Achse herum zu drehen, um das Elektrofahrzeug anzutreiben; zumindest einen Sensor, der eingerichtet ist, um eine Ausrichtungsinformation des Bretts zu messen; und einen Motorregler, der eingerichtet ist, um eine Ausrichtungsinformation zu empfangen, die durch den Sensor gemessen wird, und um zu bewirken, dass die Motoranordnung das Elektrofahrzeug auf der Basis der Ausrichtungsinformation antreibt; wobei das Elektrofahrzeug genau ein Bodenkontaktelement umfasst.
• A1. Fahrzeug gemäß Absatz A, wobei die Motoranordnung einen Radnabenmotor umfasst.
• A2. Fahrzeug gemäß Absatz A1, wobei der Radnabenmotor innenverzahnt ist.
• A3. Fahrzeug gemäß Absatz A1, wobei der Radnabenmotor ein Direktantrieb ist.
• A4. Fahrzeug gemäß Absatz A, ferner umfassend: eine erste Lichtbaugruppe, die an einem ersten Endbereich des Bretts angeordnet ist; und eine zweite Lichtbaugruppe, die an einem zweiten Endbereich des Bretts angeordnet ist; wobei die erste Lichtbaugruppe eingerichtet ist, um Licht einer ersten Farbe auszugeben, wenn das Brett im Wesentlichen in eine erste Richtung angetrieben wird, und Licht einer zweiten Farbe auszugeben, wenn das Brett im Wesentlichen in eine zweite Richtung angetrieben wird; und wobei die zweite Lichtbaugruppe eingerichtet ist, um Licht der zweiten Farbe auszugeben, wenn das Brett im Wesentlichen in die erste Richtung angetrieben wird, und Licht der ersten Farbe auszugeben, wenn das Brett im Wesentlichen in die zweite Richtung angetrieben wird.
• A5. Fahrzeug gemäß Absatz A4, wobei die erste Farbe weiß und die zweite Farbe rot ist.
• A6. Fahrzeug gemäß Absatz A, wobei der zumindest eine Sensor einen Gyrosensor und ein Beschleunigungsmeter umfasst, die gemeinsam eingerichtet sind, um einen Neigungswinkel des Bretts zu schätzen.
• B. Ein elektrisches Skateboard umfasst eine Fußstandfläche mit ersten und zweiten Standflächenbereichen, wobei jeder eingerichtet ist, um einen Fahrerfuß abzustützen; genau ein Bodenkontaktrad, das zwischen den ersten und zweiten Standflächenbereichen angeordnet ist, und eingerichtet ist, um sich um eine Achse herum zu drehen, um das Skateboard anzutreiben; zumindest einen Sensor, der eingerichtet ist, um eine Ausrichtung der Fußstandfläche zu messen; und einen Elektromotor, der eingerichtet ist, um eine Drehung des Rades auf der Basis der Ausrichtung der Fußstandfläche zu bewirken.
• B1. Skateboard gemäß Absatz B, wobei der Motor ein Radnabenmotor ist.
• B2. Skateboard gemäß Absatz B, ferner aufweisend: eine erste Lichtbaugruppe, die an einem distalen Ende des ersten Standflächenbereichs angeordnet ist; und eine zweite Lichtbaugruppe, die an einem distalen Ende des zweiten Standflächenbereichs angeordnet ist; wobei die erste Lichtbaugruppe eingerichtet ist, um Licht einer ersten Farbe auszugeben, wenn das Brett im Wesentlichen in eine erste Richtung angetrieben wird, und Licht einer zweiten Farbe auszugeben, wenn das Brett im Wesentlichen in eine zweite Richtung angetrieben wird; und wobei die zweite Lichtbaugruppe eingerichtet ist, um Licht der zweiten Farbe auszugeben, wenn das Brett im Wesentlichen in die erste Richtung angetrieben wird, und Licht der ersten Farbe auszugeben, wenn das Brett im Wesentlichen in die zweite Richtung angetrieben wird.
• B3. Skateboard gemäß Absatz B, wobei zumindest der eine Sensor einen Gyrosensor umfasst, der eingerichtet ist, um eine Schwenkbewegung der Fußstandfläche um eine Querachse herum zu messen.
• B4. Skateboard gemäß Absatz B3, wobei der zumindest eine Sensor ferner einen Beschleunigungsmesser umfasst, und wobei der Gyrosensor und der Beschleunigungsmesser gemeinsam eingerichtet sind, um eine Ausrichtung der Fußstandfläche um die Quer-, Längs- und Gierachsen zu messen.
• B5. Skateboard gemäß Absatz B, das ferner eine Fahrererfassungsvorrichtung umfasst, die eingerichtet ist, um zu bestimmen, ob die Füße eines Fahrers auf der Fußstandfläche angeordnet sind, und um ein Signal zu senden, das bewirkt, dass der Motor in einen aktiven Zustand eintritt, wenn bestimmt ist, dass die Füße des Fahrers auf der Fußstandfläche angeordnet sind.
• C. Ein selbstausbalancierendes Elektrofahrzeug umfasst: einen Rahmen, der eine Ebene definiert; einen ersten Standflächenbereich, der am Rahmen montiert und eingerichtet ist, um einen ersten Fuß eines Fahrers abzustützen; einen zweiten Standflächenbereich, der am Rahmen montiert ist, und eingerichtet ist, um einen zweiten Fuß eines Fahrers abzustützen; ein Rad, das am Rahmen zwischen den Standflächenbereichen montiert ist, das sich oberhalb und unterhalb der Ebene erstreckt, und eingerichtet ist, um sich um eine Achse herum zu drehen, die in der Ebene liegt; zumindest einen Sensor, der am Rahmen montiert ist, und eingerichtet ist, um eine Ausrichtungsinformation des Rahmens zu erfassen; einen Motorregler, der eingerichtet ist, um die Ausrichtungsinformation vom Sensor zu empfangen, und um ein Motorsteuersignal als Reaktion auf die Ausrichtungsinformation zu erzeugen; und einen Motor, der eingerichtet ist, um das Motorsteuersignal vom Motorregler zu empfangen, und um das Rad als Reaktion darauf zu drehen, um somit das Skateboard anzutreiben.
• C1. Elektrofahrzeug gemäß Absatz C, wobei der Motor ein elektrischer Direktantrieb-Radnabenmotor ist.
• C2. Elektrofahrzeug gemäß Absatz C, wobei der zumindest eine Sensor einen Gyrosensor und einen Drei-Achsen-Beschleunigungsmesser umfasst, die gemeinsam eingerichtet sind, um eine Ausrichtungsinformation zu erfassen, die ausreichend ist, um einen Neigungswinkel des Rahmens einschließlich einer Schwenkbewegung um die Quer-, Längs- und Gierachsen herum zu schätzen.
• C3. Elektrofahrzeug gemäß Absatz C, das ferner aufweist: eine erste Rutschplatte und einen ersten Illuminator, die an einem distalen Ende des ersten Standflächenbereichs angeordnet sind, und eine zweite Rutschplatte und einen zweiten Illuminator, die an einem distalen Ende des zweiten Standflächenbereichs angeordnet sind, wobei jede Rutschplatte eine Öffnung umfasst, die eingerichtet ist, um Licht vom entsprechenden Illuminator zu ermöglichen, hindurch zu scheinen, während verhindert wird, dass der Illuminator den Boden kontaktiert.
• C4. Elektrofahrzeug gemäß Absatz C3, wobei der erste Illuminator eingerichtet ist, um Licht einer ersten Farbe auszugeben, wenn der Rahmen im Wesentlichen in eine erste Richtung angetrieben wird, und Licht einer zweiten Farbe auszugeben, wenn der Rahmen im Wesentlichen in eine zweite Richtung angetrieben wird, und wobei der zweite Illuminator eingerichtet ist, um Licht der zweiten Farbe auszugeben, wenn der Rahmen im Wesentlichen in die erste Richtung angetrieben wird, und um Licht der ersten Farbe auszugeben, wenn der Rahmen im Wesentlichen in die zweite Richtung angetrieben wird.
• C5. Elektrofahrzeug gemäß Absatz C, das ferner ein Schutzblech aufweist, das zumindest an einem der Standflächenbereiche angeordnet ist, und eingerichtet ist, um zu verhindern, dass Wasser, das durch das Rad durchlaufen wird, auf einen Fahrer spritzt.
• C6. Elektrofahrzeug gemäß Absatz C5, wobei das Schutzblech an sowohl dem ersten als auch zweiten Standflächenbereich angeordnet ist und im Wesentlichen das Rad vom Fahrer vollständig trennt.
• D0. Ein Elektrofahrzeug, umfassend: ein Brett mit ersten und zweiten Standflächenbereichen, wobei jeder eingerichtet ist, um einen linken oder rechten Fuß eines Fahrers aufzunehmen, der im Wesentlichen rechtwinklig zu einer Längsachse des Bretts ausgerichtet ist; eine Radanordnung mit einem Bodenkontaktelement, das zwischen den ersten und zweiten Standflächenbereichen angeordnet ist und sich oberhalb dieser erstreckt; eine Motoranordnung, die am Brett befestigt ist, und eingerichtet ist, um das Bodenkontaktelement um eine Achse herumzudrehen, um das Elektrofahrzeug anzutreiben; zumindest einen Ausrichtungssensor, der eingerichtet ist, um eine Ausrichtungsinformation des Bretts zu messen; einen ersten Erfassungsbereich, der im ersten Standflächenbereich angeordnet ist, wobei der erste Erfassungsbereich einen ersten druckempfindlichen Messwandler umfasst; und einen Motorregler, der eingerichtet ist, um eine Brettausrichtungsinformation, die durch den Ausrichtungssensor gemessen wird, und eine Fahrer-Vorhanden-Information auf der Basis einer Ausgabe des ersten druckempfindlichen Messwandlers zu empfangen, und um zu bewirken, dass die Motoranordnung das Elektrofahrzeug auf der Basis der Brettausrichtungsinformation und der Fahrer-Vorhanden-Information antreibt.
• D1. Fahrzeug gemäß Absatz D0, wobei der erste Erfassungsbereich ferner einen zweiten druckempfindlichen Messwandler umfasst, der benachbart zum und seitlich vom ersten druckempfindlichen Messwandler beabstandet ist, so dass der erste druckempfindliche Messwandler und der zweite druckempfindliche Messwandler eingerichtet sind, um jeweils unterhalb eines vorderen Bereichs und eines hinteren Bereichs des linken oder rechten Fußes des Fahrers angeordnet zu sein.
• D2. Fahrzeug gemäß einem der Absätze D0 bis D1, wobei der erste druckempfindliche Messwandler in einer oberen Fläche des ersten Standflächenbereichs eingebettet ist.
• D3. Fahrzeug gemäß Absatz D2, wobei der erste druckempfindliche Messwandler zwischen einer rutschfesten Schicht und einer steifen Schicht des ersten Standflächenbereichs zwischengelegt ist.
• D4. Fahrzeug gemäß einem der Absätze D0 bis D3, wobei der erste druckempfindliche Messwandler in einem wasserdichten Gehäuse eingeschlossen ist.
• D5. Fahrzeug gemäß Absatz D4, wobei das wasserdichte Gehäuse eine luftdurchlässige, wasserbeständige Entlüftung umfasst.
• D6. Fahrzeug gemäß einem der Absätze D0 bis D5, wobei der erste druckempfindliche Messwandler einen kraftempfindlichen Widerstand aufweist.
• D7. Fahrzeug gemäß einem der Absätze D0 bis D6, wobei der erste druckempfindliche Messwandler eine elastische, erste leitfähige Schicht aufweist, die von einer zweiten leitfähigen Schicht beabstandet ist und ihr gegenüber liegt, so dass eine auf die erste leitfähige Schicht aufgebrachte Kraft bewirkt, dass die erste leitfähige Schicht mit der zweiten leitfähigen Schicht in Kontakt ist.
• E0. Elektrisches Skateboard, umfassend: eine Fußstandfläche mit ersten und zweiten Standflächenbereichen, wobei jede eingerichtet ist, um einen Fahrerfuß abzustützen, der im Wesentlichen senkrecht zu einer Längsachse der Fußstandfläche ausgerichtet ist; genau ein Bodenkontaktrad, das zwischen den ersten und zweiten Standflächenbereichen angeordnet ist und sich oberhalb dieser erstreckt, und eingerichtet ist, um sich um eine Achse herum zu drehen, um das Skateboard anzutreiben; zumindest einen Ausrichtungssensor, der eingerichtet ist, um eine Ausrichtung der Fußstandfläche zu messen; einen druckempfindlichen Messwandler, der auf dem ersten Standflächenbereich angeordnet ist; und einen Elektromotor, der eingerichtet ist, um eine Drehung des Rades auf der Basis der Ausrichtung der Fußstandfläche und einer Ausgabe des druckempfindlichen Messwandlers zu bewirken.
• E1. Skateboard gemäß Absatz E0, wobei der druckempfindliche Messwandler eine Abstandsschicht aufweist, die zwischen einer kraftempfindlichen Widerstandsschicht und einer elektrischen Schaltungsschicht angeordnet ist.
• E2. Skateboard gemäß Absatz E0, wobei der druckempfindliche Messwandler eine Abstandsschicht aufweist, die zwischen einer elektrisch leitfähigen Schicht und einer teilweisen elektrisch leitfähigen Schicht mit einer Leitfähigkeit die proportional zu einer darauf aufgebrachten Kraft ist, angeordnet ist.
• E3. Skateboard gemäß einem der Absätze E0 bis E2, wobei der druckempfindliche Messwandler eine elastische, erste leitfähige Schicht aufweist, die von einer zweiten leitfähigen Schicht beabstandet ist und ihr gegenüberliegt, so dass die erste leitfähige Schicht verschiebbar ist, um mit der zweiten leitfähigen Schicht in elektrischem Kontakt zu stehen, wodurch die Ausgabe des druckempfindlichen Messwandlers erzeugt wird.
• E4. Skateboard gemäß einem der Absätze E0 bis E3, wobei der druckempfindliche Messwandler mit einem Motorregler kommuniziert, der eingerichtet ist, um den Elektromotor zu steuern.
• E5. Skateboard gemäß Absatz E4, das ferner einen Drehzahlsensor umfasst, der eingerichtet ist, um eine Raddrehzahlinformation für den Motorregler vorzusehen, wobei der Motorregler eingerichtet ist, um den Motor auf der Basis der Ausgabe des druckempfindlichen Messwandlers und der Raddrehzahlinformation zu steuern.
• E6. Skateboard gemäß einem der Absätze E0 bis E5, wobei der druckempfindliche Messwandler in einem wasserdichten Gehäuse eingeschlossen ist.
• E7. Skateboard gemäß einem der Absätze E0 bis E6, wobei der druckempfindliche Messwandler einen kraftempfindlichen Widerstand umfasst.
• F0. Selbstausbalancierendes Elektrofahrzeug, umfassend: einen Rahmen, der eine Ebene definiert und eine Längsachse aufweist; einen ersten Standflächenbereich, der am Rahmen montiert ist, und eingerichtet ist, um einen ersten Fuß eines Fahrers abzustützen, der im Wesentlichen rechtwinklig zur Längsachse des Rahmens ausgerichtet ist; einen zweiten Standflächenbereich, der am Rahmen montiert ist, und eingerichtet ist, um einen zweiten Fuß eines Fahrers abzustützen, der im Wesentlichen rechtwinklig zur Längsachse des Rahmens ausgerichtet ist; ein Rad, das am Rahmen zwischen den Standflächenbereichen montiert ist, das sich oberhalb und unterhalb der Ebene erstreckt, und eingerichtet ist, um sich um eine Achse herum zu drehen, die in der Ebene liegt; zumindest einen Ausrichtungssensor, der am Rahmen montiert ist, und eingerichtet ist, um eine Ausrichtungsinformation des Rahmens zu erfassen; einen druckempfindlichen Messwandler, der auf dem ersten Standflächenbereich angeordnet ist, und eingerichtet ist, um eine Fahrer-Vorhanden-Information auf der Basis einer Kraft, die auf den ersten Standflächenbereich aufgebracht wird, zu erfassen; einen Motorregler, der eingerichtet ist, um die Ausrichtungsinformation und die Fahrer-Vorhanden-Information zu empfangen, und um ein Motorsteuersignal als Reaktion zu erzeugen; und einen Motor, der eingerichtet ist, um das Motorsteuersignal vom Motorregler zu empfangen, und um das Rad als Reaktion darauf zu drehen, um somit das Skateboard anzutreiben.
• F1. Elektrofahrzeug gemäß Absatz F0, wobei der Motorregler eingerichtet ist, um eine Motordrehung zu ermöglichen, wenn der druckempfindliche Messwandler erfasst, dass die Kraft derzeit auf den ersten Standflächenbereich aufgebracht wird.
• F2. Elektrofahrzeug gemäß einem der Absätze F0 bis F1, wobei der druckempfindliche Messwandler ein erster druckempfindlicher Messwandler ist, wobei das Fahrzeug ferner einen zweiten druckempfindlichen Messwandler aufweist, der seitlich zum ersten druckempfindlichen Messwandler benachbart ist, wobei die ersten und zweiten druckempfindlichen Messwandler jeweils eine erste getrennte Erfassungszone und eine zweite getrennte Erfassungszone aufweisen.
• F3. Elektrofahrzeug gemäß einem der Absätze F0 bis F2, wobei der druckempfindliche Messwandler zumindest eine teilweise elektrisch leitfähige Schicht umfasst.
• F4. Elektrofahrzeug gemäß Absatz F3, wobei der druckempfindliche Messwandler einen kraftempfindlichen Widerstand umfasst.
• F5. Elektrofahrzeug gemäß einem der Absätze F0 bis F4, wobei der druckempfindliche Messwandler in einem wasserdichten Gehäuse eingeschlossen ist.
• F6. Elektrofahrzeug gemäß einem der Absätze F0 bis F5, wobei der druckempfindliche Messwandler zwischen einer oberen rutschfesten Schicht und einem steifen Bereich des ersten Standflächenbereichs zwischengelegt ist.

The following describes additional aspects and features of the disclosed embodiments, which are illustrated without limitation as a series of numbered paragraphs. Each of these paragraphs may be combined with one or more other paragraphs and / or with a disclosure of any of the foregoing in this application, including materials incorporated by reference for purposes of reference. Some of the paragraphs below explicitly refer to and restrict other paragraphs, with examples of some of the appropriate combinations being provided without limitation.

• A. An electric vehicle includes a board having first and second floor areas, each configured to receive a driver's left or right foot; a wheel assembly disposed between the first and second land areas and including a ground contact member; a motor assembly mounted on the board and configured to rotate the ground contact element about an axis to drive the electric vehicle; at least one sensor configured to measure alignment information of the board; and a motor controller configured to receive alignment information measured by the sensor and to cause the motor assembly to drive the electric vehicle based on the alignment information; wherein the electric vehicle comprises exactly one ground contact element.
• A1. Vehicle according to paragraph A, wherein the engine assembly comprises a wheel hub motor.
• A2. Vehicle according to paragraph A1, wherein the wheel hub motor is internally toothed.
• A3. Vehicle according to paragraph A1, wherein the wheel hub motor is a direct drive.
• A4. A vehicle according to paragraph A, further comprising: a first light assembly disposed at a first end portion of the board; and a second light assembly disposed at a second end portion of the board; wherein the first light assembly is configured to output light of a first color when the board is driven substantially in a first direction and to output light of a second color when the board is driven substantially in a second direction; and wherein the second light assembly is configured to output light of the second color when the board is driven substantially in the first direction and output light of the first color when the board is driven substantially in the second direction.
• A5. Vehicle according to paragraph A4, where the first color is white and the second color is red.
• A6. Vehicle according to paragraph A, wherein the at least one sensor comprises a gyro sensor and an accelerometer, which are arranged together to estimate a tilt angle of the board.
• B. An electric skateboard includes a footstand with first and second footprint areas, each configured to support a rider's foot; exactly one ground contact wheel disposed between the first and second land areas, and configured to rotate about an axis to drive the skateboard; at least one sensor configured to measure an orientation of the footprint surface; and an electric motor configured to cause rotation of the wheel based on the orientation of the footstand.
• B1. Skateboard according to paragraph B, wherein the engine is a wheel hub motor.
• B2. A skateboard according to paragraph B, further comprising: a first light assembly disposed at a distal end of the first land area; and a second light assembly disposed at a distal end of the second footprint area; wherein the first light assembly is configured to output light of a first color when the board is driven substantially in a first direction and to output light of a second color when the board is driven substantially in a second direction; and wherein the second light assembly is configured to output light of the second color when the board is driven substantially in the first direction and output light of the first color when the board is driven substantially in the second direction.
• B3. A skateboard according to paragraph B, wherein at least one sensor comprises a gyro sensor arranged to measure a pivoting movement of the footstand about a lateral axis.
• B4. A skateboard according to paragraph B3, wherein the at least one sensor further comprises an accelerometer, and wherein the gyrosensor and the accelerometer are common are arranged to measure an alignment of the Fußstandfläche to the transverse, longitudinal and yaw axes.
• B5. A skateboard according to paragraph B, further comprising a driver detection device configured to determine if a driver's feet are located on the footprint surface and to transmit a signal that causes the engine to enter an active state when it is determined that the driver's feet are arranged on the footstand.
• C. A self-balancing electric vehicle comprises: a frame defining a plane; a first floor space portion mounted to the frame and adapted to support a first foot of a rider; a second floor space portion mounted on the frame and configured to support a second foot of a rider; a wheel mounted on the frame between the floor areas extending above and below the plane and arranged to rotate about an axis lying in the plane; at least one sensor mounted on the frame and configured to detect alignment information of the frame; a motor controller configured to receive the alignment information from the sensor and to generate a motor control signal in response to the alignment information; and a motor configured to receive the motor control signal from the motor controller and to rotate the wheel in response thereto to thereby drive the skateboard.
• C1. Electric vehicle according to paragraph C, wherein the engine is a direct drive electric wheel hub motor.
• C2. Electric vehicle according to paragraph C, wherein the at least one sensor comprises a gyro sensor and a three-axis accelerometer, which are arranged together to detect an orientation information sufficient to a inclination angle of the frame including a pivoting movement about the transverse, longitudinal - and to appreciate yaw axes around.
• C3. An electric vehicle according to paragraph C, further comprising: a first slide plate and a first illuminator disposed at a distal end of the first pedestal area, and a second slide plate and a second illuminator disposed at a distal end of the second pedestal area, each Slip plate includes an opening which is adapted to allow light from the corresponding illuminator to shine through while preventing the illuminator is contacted by the ground.
• C4. The electric vehicle according to paragraph C3, wherein the first illuminator is configured to output light of a first color when the frame is driven substantially in a first direction and to output light of a second color when the frame is driven substantially in a second direction, and wherein the second illuminator is configured to output light of the second color when the frame is driven substantially in the first direction and to output light of the first color when the frame is driven substantially in the second direction.
• C5. An electric vehicle according to paragraph C, further comprising an apron disposed on at least one of the land areas and configured to prevent water passing through the wheel from being splashed onto a driver.
• C6. Electric vehicle according to paragraph C5, wherein the fender is disposed on both the first and second floor space area and substantially completely separates the wheel from the driver.
• D0. An electric vehicle, comprising: a board having first and second floor areas, each arranged to receive a left or right foot of a driver oriented substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the board; a wheel assembly having a ground contact member disposed between and extending above the first and second land portions; a motor assembly attached to the board and configured to rotate the ground contact element about an axis to drive the electric vehicle; at least one alignment sensor arranged to measure alignment information of the board; a first detection area disposed in the first floor area, the first detection area including a first pressure-sensitive transducer; and an engine controller configured to receive board alignment information measured by the alignment sensor and driver presence information based on an output of the first pressure-sensitive transducer, and to cause the engine assembly to support the electric vehicle on the vehicle Base of board registration information and driver present information drives.
• D1. The vehicle according to paragraph D0, wherein the first detection area further comprises a second pressure-sensitive transducer spaced adjacent to and laterally spaced from the first pressure-sensitive transducer, such that the first pressure-sensitive transducer and the second pressure-sensitive transducer are arranged to respectively below a forward one Area and a rear portion of the left or right foot of the driver to be arranged.
• D2. The vehicle according to any one of paragraphs D0 to D1, wherein the first pressure sensitive transducer is embedded in an upper surface of the first land area.
• D3. Vehicle according to paragraph D2, wherein the first pressure-sensitive transducer between a non-slip layer and a rigid layer of the first floor space area is interposed.
• D4. A vehicle according to any one of paragraphs D0 to D3, wherein the first pressure-sensitive transducer is enclosed in a watertight housing.
• D5. Vehicle according to paragraph D4, wherein the watertight housing comprises an air-permeable, water-resistant vent.
• D6. A vehicle according to any one of paragraphs D0 to D5, wherein the first pressure sensitive transducer comprises a force sensitive resistor.
• D7. A vehicle according to any one of paragraphs D0 to D6, wherein the first pressure-sensitive transducer comprises a resilient, first conductive layer spaced from and facing a second conductive layer so that a force applied to the first conductive layer causes the first pressure-sensitive transducer conductive layer is in contact with the second conductive layer.
• E0. An electric skateboard, comprising: a footwell having first and second footprint areas, each configured to support a rider's foot that is oriented substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the footwell; exactly one ground contact wheel disposed between and extending above the first and second land areas, and configured to rotate about an axis to drive the skateboard; at least one alignment sensor arranged to measure an orientation of the footstand; a pressure-sensitive transducer disposed on the first land area; and an electric motor configured to effect rotation of the wheel based on the orientation of the footstand and an output of the pressure sensitive transducer.
• E1. A skateboard according to paragraph E0, wherein the pressure sensitive transducer comprises a spacer layer disposed between a force sensitive resistive layer and an electrical circuit layer.
• E2. A skateboard according to paragraph E0, wherein the pressure sensitive transducer has a spacer layer disposed between an electrically conductive layer and a partially electrically conductive layer having a conductivity proportional to a force applied thereto.
• E3. A skateboard according to any one of paragraphs E0 to E2, wherein the pressure sensitive transducer comprises a resilient, first conductive layer spaced from and facing a second conductive layer such that the first conductive layer is slidable to electrically engage with the second conductive layer Contact, whereby the output of the pressure-sensitive transducer is generated.
• E4. A skateboard according to any one of paragraphs E0 to E3, wherein the pressure sensitive transducer communicates with a motor controller configured to control the electric motor.
• E5. A skateboard according to paragraph E4, further comprising a speed sensor configured to provide wheel speed information to the engine controller, the engine controller configured to control the engine based on the pressure sensitive transducer output and the wheel speed information.
• E6. A skateboard according to any one of paragraphs E0 to E5, wherein the pressure sensitive transducer is enclosed in a watertight housing.
• E7. A skateboard according to any one of paragraphs E0 through E6, wherein the pressure sensitive transducer comprises a force sensitive resistor.
• F0. A self-balancing electric vehicle, comprising: a frame defining a plane and having a longitudinal axis; a first floor space portion mounted to the frame and configured to support a first foot of a rider that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the frame; a second floor space portion mounted to the frame and configured to support a second foot of a driver that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the frame; a wheel mounted on the frame between the floor areas extending above and below the plane and arranged to rotate about an axis lying in the plane; at least one alignment sensor mounted on the frame and configured to detect alignment information of the frame; a pressure sensitive transducer disposed on the first land area and configured to detect driver present information based on a force applied to the first land area; a motor controller configured to receive the alignment information and the driver present information and to generate a motor control signal in response; and a motor configured to receive the motor control signal from the motor controller and to rotate the wheel in response thereto to thereby drive the skateboard.
• F1. Electric vehicle according to paragraph F0, wherein the engine controller is arranged to allow engine rotation when the pressure sensitive transducer detects that the force is currently being applied to the first floor space area.
• F2. An electric vehicle according to any one of paragraphs F0 to F1, wherein the pressure-sensitive transducer is a first pressure-sensitive transducer, the vehicle further comprising a second pressure-sensitive transducer adjacent to the first pressure-sensitive transducer, the first and second pressure-sensitive transducers each having a first separate sensing zone and a second separate detection zone.
• F3. Electric vehicle according to one of the paragraphs F0 to F2, wherein the pressure-sensitive transducer comprises at least one partially electrically conductive layer.
• F4. Electric vehicle according to paragraph F3, wherein the pressure-sensitive transducer comprises a force-sensitive resistor.
• F5. An electric vehicle according to any one of paragraphs F0 to F4, wherein the pressure-sensitive transducer is enclosed in a waterproof case.
• F6. An electric vehicle according to any one of paragraphs F0 to F5, wherein the pressure sensitive transducer is interposed between an upper anti-skid layer and a rigid portion of the first land area.

Conclusion

The disclosure presented above may include several different inventions of independent use. Although each of these inventions has been disclosed in its preferred form, the specific embodiments thereof, as disclosed and illustrated herein, are not to be considered in a limiting sense as various changes are possible. To the extent section headings are used within this disclosure, these headings are for organizational purposes only. The subject matter of the examples includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and sub-combinations of the various elements, features, functions and / or properties disclosed herein. In particular, the following claims suggest certain combinations and sub-combinations that are considered to be novel and not obvious. Other combinations and subcombinations of features, functions, elements and / or properties may be claimed in applications claiming priority from this or a related application. These claims, whether broader, narrower, equal, or different in scope to the original claims, are also to be considered as included within the subject matter of the present disclosure.

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• US 9101817 [0001]

Claims (20)

Electric vehicle, comprising: A board having first and second floor areas, each arranged to receive a left or right foot of a driver oriented substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the board; A wheel assembly having a ground contacting element disposed between and extending above the first and second land areas; A motor assembly mounted on the board and adapted to rotate the ground contact element about an axis to drive the electric vehicle; At least one alignment sensor arranged to measure alignment information of the board; A first detection area disposed in the first floor space area, the first detection area including two pressure-sensitive transducers spaced apart so that a first one of the two pressure-sensitive transducers registers a first area of a driver's foot and a second one of the two pressure-sensitive transducers second area of the same foot of the driver registered; and An engine controller configured to receive alignment information measured by the orientation sensor and driver present information based on the outputs of the two pressure-sensitive transducers, and to cause the engine assembly to operate the electric vehicle based on the board alignment information and driver present information drives; - wherein the engine controller is further configured to stop the engine assembly in response to the activation of exactly none or exactly one of the two pressure-sensitive transducers when a speed of the electric vehicle is below a threshold value. Electric vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the first pressure-sensitive transducer comprises at least one partially electrically conductive layer. An electric vehicle according to claim 2, wherein the first pressure-sensitive transducer comprises a force-sensitive resistor. The electric vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the pressure-sensitive transducers are covered by a solid upper layer which abuts directly on the pressure-sensitive transducers, and wherein the solid upper layer comprises a non-slip material. Electric vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the ground contact element extends laterally over at least a majority of a width of the board. The electric vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the first pressure-sensitive transducer is enclosed in a waterproof case. Electric vehicle according to claim 6, wherein the waterproof housing comprises at least one air-permeable, water-resistant vent. Electric vehicle, comprising: A board having first and second floor areas, each arranged to receive a left or right foot of a driver oriented substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the board; A wheel assembly having a ground contacting element disposed between and extending above the first and second land areas; A motor assembly mounted on the board and adapted to rotate the ground contact element about an axis to drive the electric vehicle; At least one alignment sensor arranged to measure alignment information of the board; A detection area disposed in one of the floor space areas and comprising two pressure-sensitive transducers spaced apart so that a first of the two pressure-sensitive transducers registers a first area of a driver's foot and a second one of the two pressure-sensitive transducers registers a second area of the same foot registered by the driver; and An engine controller configured to receive alignment information measured by the orientation sensor and driver present information based on the outputs of the two pressure-sensitive transducers, and to cause the engine assembly to operate the electric vehicle based on the board alignment information and driver present information drives; - wherein the engine controller is further configured to stop the engine assembly in response to the activation of exactly none of the two pressure-sensitive transducers. The electric vehicle of claim 8, further comprising a speed sensor configured to provide wheel speed information to the engine controller, and wherein the engine controller is configured to only energize the engine assembly in response to activation of precisely none of the two pressure-sensitive transducers stop when a speed of the electric vehicle is below a threshold. The electric vehicle according to claim 8, wherein the two pressure-sensitive transducers are arranged to be respectively disposed below a front portion and a rear portion of the same foot of the driver. The electric vehicle according to claim 8, wherein the two pressure-sensitive transducers are embedded in an upper surface of the first land area. The electric vehicle according to claim 11, wherein the two pressure-sensitive transducers are interposed between a non-slip layer and a rigid layer of the first land area. An electric vehicle according to claim 8, wherein the two pressure-sensitive transducers are enclosed in a waterproof case. The electric vehicle according to claim 13, wherein the waterproof case includes an air-permeable, water-resistant vent. Electric vehicle, comprising: A board having first and second floor areas, each arranged to receive a left or right foot of a driver oriented substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the board; A wheel assembly having a ground contacting element disposed between and extending above the first and second land areas; A motor assembly mounted on the board and adapted to rotate the ground contact element about an axis to drive the electric vehicle; At least one alignment sensor arranged to measure alignment information of the board; A detection area disposed in one of the floor space areas, the detection area including two sensor zones spaced from each other so that a first of the two sensor zones registers a first area of a foot of the driver and a second of the two sensor zones registers a second area of the same foot registered by the driver; and An engine controller configured to measure a board alignment information measured by the alignment sensor and a driver present information based on the outputs of the two sensor zones, and to cause the engine assembly to power the electric vehicle based on the board alignment information and driver present information drives; wherein the engine controller is configured to activate the engine in response to activation of the two sensor zones and to stop the engine assembly in response to the activation of precisely none of the sensor zones. The electric vehicle of claim 15, wherein the engine controller is configured to keep the engine active in response to the activation of at least one of the two sensor zones. The electric vehicle of claim 15, further comprising a speed sensor configured to measure a speed of the vehicle, and wherein the engine controller is configured to keep the engine active in response to activation of at least one of the sensor zones if the speed of the vehicle does not fall below a predetermined minimum speed, in which case the engine controller is arranged to stop the engine assembly in response to activation of exactly one of the sensor zones and keep the engine active in response to activation of both sensor zones. The electric vehicle according to claim 15, wherein the two sensor zones are arranged to be respectively disposed below a front area and a rear area of the same foot of the driver. The electric vehicle according to claim 15, wherein each sensor zone comprises first and second wiring layers separated by a spacer layer. The electric vehicle of claim 15, wherein the engine controller is configured to activate the engine only in response to activation of both sensor zones.

Images